LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — The property managers at The 1809 at Winchester want their residents to know that they’re not alone.
“We’re not in the business of kicking people out of their homes. We will work with them on a case by case basis,” 1809 at Winchester manager Rachel Rubino said.
Rubino said her office wasn’t flooded with requests from tenants looking for relief. However, during the last several weeks, a few residents did reach out to inform the office that they had lost their jobs due to COVID-19, meaning that making future rent payments might be problematic. West Shore, LLC, which owns the complex, instructed staff members to work with residents wherever possible.
“Keep the humanity side at the forefront,” Rubino said. “Especially in housing. We’re essential because we do provide people with their homes, not just a place to put their things."
Ashley Louthan is glad she decided to put herself and her things here. She lost her job in the service industry, which has been decimated by the outbreak. April’s rent due date has been fresh on her mind for weeks.
“It’s one of the things I’ve been most concerned about,” Louthan said. “I reached out to them, told them the situation. Definitely happy they’re willing to work with me."
Current residents aren’t the only West Shore clients being helped. If you signed a lease, but are no longer in a position to tackle the rent, Rubino said there are other options.
“Change the move-in date,” she suggested. “We still want them to be residents, and look forward to serving them once this blows over.”
Once this blows over, people are likely going to remember those who went above and beyond to lend a hand or ease some stress.
“So happy to be here,” Louthan said. “They’ve been so nice.”
