Emergency warming station opens at Woodstock City Church for cold nights
The City of Woodstock, local churches, and the Homeless Coalition of Cherokee County have activated an emergency warming station at Woodstock City Church on freezing nights. Guests can check in during set evening hours, stay overnight, and depart in the morning, giving vulnerable neighbors a safe place to escape dangerously low temperatures. Organizers are asking for volunteers and donated supplies to keep the effort going through the winter.
* Activated on designated freezing nights with set evening check-in hours
* Serves people experiencing homelessness or inadequate heat at home
* Coalition is sharing a wish list and volunteer opportunities
Sources:https://www.woodstockga.gov/alert_detail.phphttps://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/list-warming-centers-opening-metro-atlanta/ACCHWQQXNBAE5M3MYGUGNMRHEA/
Food insecurity climbs in Woodstock as shutdown and SNAP issues strain pantries
Regional reporting highlights a sharp rise in food insecurity in Woodstock and Cherokee County. Never Alone Community Food Pantry and other local organizations are serving many more families than in past years, as a prolonged federal shutdown, SNAP disruptions, and continued high grocery prices drive demand. Pantries are assembling emergency food kits and calling for consistent community support, not just one-time holiday giving.
* Never Alone reports significantly higher demand for food assistance
* Shutdown and benefits uncertainty are pushing more families to pantries
* Local media urge steady donations and volunteer support
Sources:https://www.gpb.org/news/2025/11/06/rise-in-food-insecurity-seen-in-woodstock-the-need-has-grown-our-city-has-grownhttps://www.gpb.org/news/2025/11/19/gpb-morning-headlines-for-november-19-2025https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/podcast-episode/cherokee-county-food-pantries-preparing-for-snap-freeze-walmart-drone-delivery-service-coming-to-woodstock-pigtails-crewcuts-announces-new-woodstock-salon-owner
Missing Cherokee County man found dead after nearly two-week search
Cherokee County authorities have confirmed that James “Greg” Powell, age 61, who was reported missing on November 2, has been found dead. The case drew widespread attention from Woodstock and across the county, as family, friends, and law enforcement shared his photo and organized searches. Details surrounding his death have not been fully released.
* Powell was reported missing on November 2
* Extensive searches and public alerts were issued in Cherokee County
* Deputies later located his body; investigation continues
Cherokee commissioners explore new zoning tools to boost workforce housing
Cherokee County commissioners are exploring the idea of a new zoning designation designed to encourage “workforce housing” purchases. The concept is aimed at helping middle-income workers—such as teachers, nurses, and first responders—live closer to their jobs. The discussion is still in early stages, and any formal changes would require more study, public input, and future votes.
* Proposed zoning would focus on middle-income homebuyers
* Goal is to keep essential workers living in the communities they serve
* No final decision yet; public feedback will be important
Sources:https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/cherokee-county/cherokee-co-commissioners-discuss-new-zoning-designation-workforce-housing-purchases/
Adopt-A-Senior holiday program seeks donations for Cherokee County elders
A countywide Adopt-A-Senior program is underway to support older adults across Cherokee County. The initiative connects donors with seniors—many of them homebound or on fixed incomes—through simple wish lists that include warm clothing, basic toiletries, and modest gifts. Organizers say the goal is to provide comfort and remind seniors that the community has not forgotten them.
* Donors “adopt” a specific senior and shop from a wish list
* Focus on practical items and small holiday surprises
* Opportunities are available for individuals, families, and businesses
Sources:https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/cherokee-county/adopt-a-senior-program-seeks-holiday-donations/
Holiday Sip + Shop lights up Downtown Woodstock tonight
The Holiday Sip + Shop returns to Downtown Woodstock this evening, typically running from 5–9 p.m. Ticketed guests receive a commemorative tote bag, a map of participating stores, and access to in-store specials and extended hours. Proceeds benefit InSeason Woodstock and its downtown beautification projects, turning a fun night out into long-term investment in the city’s appearance.
* Ticketed event in the downtown entertainment district
* Shopping, samples, and specials at local businesses
* Proceeds support planting and beautification projects
Sources:https://visitwoodstockga.com/holiday-sip-shop/https://www.facebook.com/dtwoodstock/posts/the-holiday-sip-shop-takes-place-in-downtown-woodstock-this-thursday-nov-20th-5p/1312456354247488/
Woodstock Christmas Jubilee & Parade of Lights coming December 7
Woodstock’s Christmas Jubilee and Parade of Lights is set for Sunday, December 7, bringing a lighted parade, food vendors, and family activities to Downtown Woodstock and the Park at City Center. The city has announced temporary road closures along Main Street and Rope Mill Road during the event. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead for traffic and parking and to arrive early for the best viewing spots.
* Parade of lighted floats and community groups through Downtown Woodstock
* Activities and entertainment continue at the Park at City Center
* Temporary closures on Main Street and Rope Mill Road during the event window
Sources:https://woodstock.recdesk.com/Community/Program/Detail?programId=2082https://www.woodstockga.gov/news_detail_T15_R63.phphttps://www.atlantaonthecheap.com/christmas-parade-woodstock/
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