Lexington’s Community Emergency Winter Weather Plan in Effect

DEM Blogger

March 6, 2020

The LFUCG Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention has activated the Community Emergency Winter Weather Plan.  It is effective for the evening of Friday, March 6 through the morning of Sunday, March 8, 2020. 

This Emergency Winter Weather Plan provides a coordinated response for times when extreme cold weather creates additional, immediate need for expanded capacity to assist people experiencing homelessness in Lexington. Extreme temperatures often force people to seek shelter who may not otherwise seek assistance. In some cases, people struggling with mental illness may not seek shelter and require additional intervention for their own safety. This plan ensures Lexington is prepared for these situations. The updated plan for 2019-2020 is attached.

All shelters in the area will add capacity, welcoming all eligible people including former residents under suspension for behavioral or programmatic reasons. Exceptions may include individuals suspended for violence and decisions will be made on a case by case basis, but providers and OHPI will collaborate to ensure emergency sheltering is available for anyone in need. If anyone engages a person that states they cannot for any reason be sheltered – please call 859.893.3264. Lexington has made arrangements to cover all circumstances.

LexTran will be offering free rides to shelters.

To report someone in need, you may reach the HopeMobile at 859-252-7881, or the Compassionate Caravan at 859-255-0301. The public can leave messages at both numbers, however, returns calls will not be made.

Anyone needing assistance can dial 2-1-1, text their zip code to 898211, or log onto http://www.uwbg211.org/ for locations of shelters and other resources in Lexington and surrounding counties.