KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A new landmark in the fight against addiction fully opened on Tuesday as Metro Drug Coalition officially launched "The Gateway," Knoxville's first recovery community center.
The Gateway now also features a coffee shop that focuses on hiring people in recovery. It had partially opened following the competition of the first phase of construction. On Tuesday, the Metro Drug Coalition celebrated the end of its second phase of construction.
"I haven't worked a real job since 2008," said Christy Fithen, a coffee shop worker on her second day.
Before Fithen put on her apron and staff tag, she battled with addiction since she was 12 years old.
"The last 10 years I started using meth along with many more drugs," Fithen said. "Tired of being homeless, sleeping under the bridges right here in Knoxville, tired of being a drug addict. Just sick and tired."
Fithen started her journey to recovery six months ago when she walked through the doors of The Gateway Recovery Community Center.
"They have to have a place, a community, a place where they can actually spend time and fight those demons," said Knox County District Attorney Charme Allen.
The coalition opened a portion of the building in 2022. It expanded and opened a coffee shop, gym and recreation center in 2024.
"It's really to help them gain the confidence to get back into the workforce and be able to recover consistently," said Jim LaPinska, a board member.
More than 100 people have died in Knox County from an overdose as of the end of April, averaging around 30 people a month.
"So many of the overdoses we have are relapses, and folks relapse when they don't have that support in the recovery process," said Allen.
Fithen said this center has brought her a second chance at life.
"Letting people know there is hope, it's a very big blessing. I'm amazed," said Fithen.
The Gateway Community Center cost about $4 million, with funds for the center coming from local and statewide donors.