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City Of Lexington, Catholic Action Center Taking Extra Steps To Keep Homeless Safe

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LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) – Saturday’s cold weather has the City of Lexington and local organizations taking extra steps to keep the homeless safe.

Anticipating a cold front, the city of Lexington’s Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention activated its emergency winter weather plan, freeing up additional resources to make sure people living on the streets stay warm.

“Rough when you have to sleep outside when it’s cold,” said James Barton, a resident at the Catholic Action Center.

Lex-Tran will be offering free rides to shelters and facilities are making room for more people.

“We’re part of this community’s partners that try to make sure everyone has a safe and warm place to be,” said Director Ginny Ramsey.

The Catholic Action Center is opening their gathering room on Saturday night, though all the beds are reserved for long-term residents who register at the shelter.

The Compassionate Caravan will also hit the road to check on people and bring them supplies.

The emergency plan is scheduled to be in effect until Sunday. At that time city officials will re-assess based on the forecast, and decide whether to extend the plan.