LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — The Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention has activated their Emergency Winter Weather Plan due to plummeting temperatures throughout central Kentucky.
The plan will remain in effect through the morning of Monday, Nov. 4. The plan is activated anytime the temperature is expected to fall below 32 degrees to ensure that the homeless community can seek warm shelter.
The plan includes expanded shelter services and free transportation to shelters. Anyone needing assistance can dial 2-1-1, text their zip code to 898211 or visit uwbg211.org for locations of shelters and other resources in Lexington and the surrounding counties.
"I think it's the wetness and the wind also combined with the temperature is really going to make it hard for those living outside right now, so that's when we really see the drastic increase," said Carrie Thayer, the director of development at the Hope Center. "We will make room for whoever needs shelter. But one of the things that does happen at the shelter is with that many more people, we need more resources. So some of the items that are needed are always toiletries, because we go through them quickly but also any warm weather gear so hats, gloves, coats, sweaters and blankets and things like that--towels as well."
Anyone wishing to report someone who may need a ride to shelter can call or text the Catholic Action Center’s Compassionate Caravan at (859) 255-0301. You may also contact the HopeMobile for referrals at (859) 252-7881. Messages are received and followed up on, but not always returned.
