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Sunday, November 1, 2026Nov 1

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Letter to the editors: Post office glitch affects Union Gospel Mission donations

Staff photo by C.B. Schmelter / Mailboxes are seen outside of the post office at the Joel W. Solomon Federal Building on Monday, Aug. 17, 2020 in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Staff photo by C.B. Schmelter / Mailboxes are seen outside of the post office at the Joel W. Solomon Federal Building on Monday, Aug. 17, 2020 in Chattanooga, Tenn. Staff photo by C.B. Schmelter / Mailboxes are seen outside of the post office at the Joel W. Solomon Federal Building on Monday, Aug. 17, 2020 in Chattanooga, Tenn.

Post office issue threatens donations

The Union Gospel Mission wants to make the community aware of a recent issue at the downtown Chattanooga post office that may have disrupted critical donations sent through the mail.

This month, nearly 90 post office boxes were unexpectedly closed due to what postal officials described as a system glitch. The Mission’s box was among those affected, and we were not notified of any payment issue beforehand.

Mail donations are vital to sustaining our work, especially during the first week of each month when many faithful supporters send their gifts. In past years, the first week of March brought in $4,000 in 2023, $2,000 in 2024, and $5,700 in 2025. So far this year, we have received only $200, raising concern that some donations may have been delayed or returned.

These contributions help us provide meals, shelter and care for those experiencing homelessness in our community, especially as we prepare for our annual Easter community meal.

If you recently mailed a donation, please watch for returned mail or consider giving securely online.

We are grateful for Chattanooga’s continued support and welcome anyone who can help.

Rev. Jon Rector

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