KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (TVC) — ReLaunch, a nonprofit homeless shelter in Knoxville, is searching for a new location after losing its current facility.

Founded in 2024, the organization aims to provide services that help people experiencing homelessness get back on their feet in ways its leaders say traditional rehabilitation systems often fail to do.

Colin Zimmer, known on the University of Tennessee, Knoxville campus as the “UTK Elf Guy” for handing out candy canes on Pedestrian Walkway during the holiday season, is contributing to the group’s efforts.

Zimmer joined ReLaunch as a shelter supervisor and said he has several years of experience working in that field.

“I came on the team as a shelter supervisor, and that was my main job,” Zimmer said. “I’ve worked in that area for three years, and it’s something I really excel at.”

Zimmer said losing the shelter has been difficult.

“Losing that building was almost like losing a piece of my heart,” he said.

Linda Conaway, ReLaunch’s executive director and co-founder, said securing housing remains the organization’s top priority.

“Housing can solve a lot of issues,” Conaway said. “Getting a roof over people’s heads helps create the stability they need to get off the streets and reclaim their lives.”

Through volunteers and donations, ReLaunch hopes to house more than 100 people in the coming months.