IN THIS ISSUE · SPRING 2026 — Read the cover story
For nearly 50 years, Cookeville Rescue Mission has served individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and hardship across the Upper Cumberland. Founded on March 15, 1976, the organization continues providing shelter, meals, recovery programs, and spiritual guidance year-round.
Located in Cookeville, the rescue mission exists to provide a safe and reputable haven of hope for those experiencing difficult seasons of life. Through emergency shelter, recovery programs, meals, counseling, and community support, the organization helps individuals rebuild stability and move toward a healthier future.
“The rescue mission exists to provide shelter, meals, and spiritual guidance for individuals experiencing hardships and homelessness 365 days a year,” said Ronnie Lindsey, Operations Manager at the Cookeville Rescue Mission.
For Lindsey, the mission’s work is deeply personal.
A lifelong Cookeville resident, Lindsey previously managed an auto parts store before becoming an over-the-road truck driver. During his trucking years, he struggled with addiction and eventually found himself homeless in 2011.
“I came to the Cookeville Rescue Mission in August of 2011,” Lindsey shared. “It was then I met God’s grace and knew my life was heading for a better change.”
Just months later, in October 2011, Lindsey began serving others at the mission.
“I began to serve others and meet them with the same grace I was met with,” Lindsey said. “Now I get to walk alongside them.”
Today, Lindsey is approaching 15 years of sobriety and continues helping individuals facing struggles similar to his own.
“God has shaped my life through my challenges and blessings,” Lindsey said. “He taught me humility, gratitude, and the value of serving people where they are.”
The Cookeville Rescue Mission provides emergency shelter for individuals needing immediate housing assistance. Guests receive meals, shelter, counseling, and connections to additional community resources.
In addition to shelter services, the organization also offers an on-site Life Recovery Program.
“It is a faith-based program that offers counseling, job readiness, and community support,” Lindsey explained.
The program provides a continuum of care for individuals seeking long-term recovery and stability.
“What most people don’t know about my work is how much goes on behind the scenes,” Lindsey said. “There are countless hours of listening, counseling, planning, and problem solving.”
He says every guest arrives with different struggles and challenges.
“Every guest has their own struggle and it is definitely challenging at times,” Lindsey said. “But it is rewarding to see the positive changes.”
According to Lindsey, Cookeville’s generosity plays a major role in the mission’s success.
“What makes Cookeville special is its strong spirit of generosity, faith, and love,” Lindsey said. “It is an honor to serve in a place where compassion and community go hand in hand.”
The mission receives support from local churches, volunteers, donors, and businesses throughout the year.
“The support we receive leaves me speechless,” Lindsey said. “People in Cookeville genuinely want to make a difference.”
As the organization celebrates 50 years of service, Lindsey says the milestone represents decades of faithfulness, compassion, and community support.
“This anniversary is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the dedication of past and present staff,” Lindsey said.
He also honored the mission’s founders, Bro. Larry Self and Betty Self, along with UL Whitson, who helped establish the rescue mission in 1976.
Today, Lindsey hopes his story encourages others who may be struggling.
“I want everyone to know that change is possible and help is here,” Lindsey said. “I am living proof.”
He says the mission’s goal is not to judge or “fix” people, but to walk beside them through difficult seasons.
“The staff and I are not here because it is easy,” Lindsey said. “We are here because you matter.”
To learn more or support the mission, visit:
👉https://operations.daxko.com/online/4043/OnlineGiving/Donation.mvc
-by Chelsea Dartez, photos provided by the Cookeville Rescue Mission
Add your business, share an event, or see what else is happening around town.
