Lexington’s Catholic Action Center says they’ve had a strain on finances as they help shelter the unhoused amid freezing temperatures.
That comes as shelters across Lexington have been largely at capacity since last month’s ice storm, according to city officials. The Catholic Action Center has helped house and feed 196 people since frigid temperatures began.
Ginny Ramsey is the Catholic Action Center’s executive director. She says they’ve been working with local hotels to keep those people sheltered.
“We're going to be keeping the folks in the emergency hotel shelter until next Monday, it looks like there will be a break in the weather, and we’re going to keep our most vulnerable safe in some kind of shelter,” she said.
According to a survey from the center earlier this year, Lexington needs 350 to 500 extra beds to accommodate its unhoused population.
The city opened a seasonal shelter off Versailles Road at the beginning of winter, and has been studying locations for another, permanent shelter.
Ramsey said the center has spent around $130,000 as they work to keep people fed. They’re currently looking for donations to make up that amount. They’re also asking for food donations through this week.
“We’re doing thousands and thousands of meals for these folks. They need to eat during these two weeks, so we have asked for food. A lot of restaurants have donated, and individuals are making sandwiches and bringing them snacks, etcetera, and we've had a tremendous response on that,” Ramsey said.
Monetary donations can be made at the Catholic Action Center’s website. Food donations can be made in person at the physical center at 1055 Industry Rd. from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
