FAMILY

DISASTER RELIEF

The Gospel calls us to love not just in words, but in action. When disaster strikes, Catholic Charities of East Tennessee is there to meet the moment with immediate relief and steadfast support.

After Hurricane Helene tore through communities in East Tennessee, our team responded swiftly, partnering with local parishes in Washington, Unicoi, and Johnson counties. We delivered water, food, and other critical supplies to those in need. Our commitment didn’t end there. Our case managers continue to walk alongside families through every stage of recovery, helping them rebuild their lives and regain a sense of stability and hope.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and our ability to respond without delay, we have formally established a Disaster Relief Program to ensure ongoing support for families affected by future crises. This program allows us to provide housing assistance, food, financial relief, and long-term case management, while also partnering with local organizations to rebuild communities from the ground

ADOPTION

Catholic Charities of East Tennessee offers licensed adoption services through A Loving Option, a state-approved program that facilitates private domestic adoptions. We work with birth parents who are exploring adoption as a loving, life-affirming option and with adoptive families who are ready to provide safe, stable homes. Services include adoption education, home studies, birth parent advocacy, and post-placement support. Birth mothers receive counseling, legal guidance, and assistance with eligible pregnancy-related expenses. The program operates in accordance with Tennessee state adoption laws and adheres to all Department of Children’s Services licensing requirements.

IMMIGRATION

At Catholic Charities of East Tennessee, our immigration services are dedicated to supporting individuals who are legally ELIGIBLE For BENEFITs. We provide compassionate, low- or no-cost legal assistance to help navigate the naturalization process with dignity and confidence. Our team walks alongside each client with care and professionalism, ensuring they have the guidance and resources they need on their journey to becoming citizens. This work reflects our belief in the strength of family, the promise of opportunity, and the importance of welcoming those building a future in our East Tennessee communities.

If you have questions or wish to schedule an appointment please email:

Jovanny Knoxville area

Jacqueline Chattanooga area

Alma Tri-Cities area

COUNSELING SERVICES

Catholic Charities of East Tennessee offers professional mental health counseling provided by licensed clinicians. Services are available to individuals, couples, and families and cover a wide range of needs including anxiety, grief, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Counseling is offered in a confidential setting, either in person or via telehealth. Fees are based on a sliding scale to ensure affordability, and no one is turned away due to an inability to pay. All services are provided in accordance with state licensure standards and clinical best practices.

TENNESSEE STRONG FAMILIES

Funded through a grant from the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Strong Families Program at CCETN provides support to pregnant women across East Tennessee. To qualify, individuals must be currently pregnant or living in a household with a pregnant individual. Services include rental and utility assistance, food support, baby supplies, transportation help, and access to prenatal education. The program is designed to reduce stressors and improve stability during pregnancy. CCETN staff assess needs, coordinate referrals, and provide personalized case management throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period.