1/25/2006

John Newton, Jr. passed away this past Monday after a long battle with cancer. Formerly a homeless person, John fought for many years to bring hope to those in need. He battled his way out of years of homelessness to go on to a successful career at NewsChannel 9 and to became a strong advocate for the homeless community.

He befriended and mentored many homeless families and individuals. “John reminded everyone that homelessness did not have to be a continuing way of life for so many of our neighbors with no place to call home. He helped homeless individuals find jobs and encouraged some to begin music careers through NewStar,” said Betsy Renalli, coordinator for the Regional Interagency Council on Homelessness.

“He organized television and radio appearances for the Community Kitchen to keep the community informed about issues of homelessness. John was a strong voice for the expansion of affordable permanent housing and the implementation of the Blueprint to End Chronic Homelessness in the Chattanooga Region in Ten Years,” said Al Chapman, director of faith based initiatives and community partnerships for Mayor Ron Littlefield.

John’s illness has left his family in need. For those wishing to honor John’s gifts to our community may assist his family with funeral and many medical expenses. Contributions should be submitted to the Front Porch Alliance for the Newton Family, P.O. Box 5242, Chattanooga, TN 37406.

 Mr. Newton also developed and maintained yearly benefit concerts for the Community Kitchen. He was a member of the Regional Interagency Council on Homelessness and Chattanooga Community Kitchen.

“John Newton Jr.’s faith, commitment and sincerity served as an inspiration to all those who work to help the homeless.  His dedication to helping others will live on through those he has inspired,” said John Dorris, executive director, Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition.

“John’s contributions to the community are beyond compare. His victory over homelessness was the example that so many needed. John challenged everyone to serve something greater than ourselves through his unwavering optimism, integrity, passion, generosity and faith. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered and honored for his gifts,” said Renalli. “Even through all of his suffering, John proclaimed that he was “blessed,” she said.

Mayor Littlefield will honor John’s work to fight homelessness through a proclamation later this week.