LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Shelters across Lexington are preparing to take in more people now that the city has declared a weather emergency going into the weekend.
Temperatures are expected to dip below freezing, and most shelters will make room for the homeless to get out of the cold.
“When it comes on quickly like this, people’s systems aren’t ready for it so it’s very dangerous for people who’ve been camping and people who want to stay out,” said Ginny Ramsey, Director of the Catholic Action Center.
The center’s Compassionate Caravan will be out Friday through Sunday nights to offer food and supplies to people on the streets, as well as a ride to a shelter to stay warm, Ramsey said.
“We just want to keep them healthy to have a safe place where anyone can come to seek shelter,” she said.
Ramsey is also requesting donations of food, cold weather clothing, and blankets. The Salvation Army of Lexington is also in need of donations.
“When it’s cold and when it’s wet those are dangerous conditions for people who are sleeping outside,” said Major Thomas Hinzman with The Salvation Army.
They’re asking for coats, socks, twin sheets and blankets, he said.
Volunteers for the Compassionate Caravan should meet at the Catholic Action Center by 6:30 p.m. on the day they wish to help.
