Lexington, Kentucky, November 27, 2025
The City of Lexington has initiated its Emergency Winter Weather Plan in response to a severe drop in temperatures, providing crucial shelter and support for the homeless community. The plan includes increased shelter capacity, a temporary winter shelter with 216 additional beds, and free transportation services to ensure accessibility. Community outreach efforts will inform individuals about available options, while residents are encouraged to volunteer and assist those in need during the extreme cold. Safety guidelines are also recommended for protecting oneself in frigid conditions.
Lexington Activates Emergency Winter Weather Plan Amid Cold Snap
Lexington, Kentucky – The City of Lexington has activated its Emergency Winter Weather Plan to provide shelter and support for individuals experiencing homelessness due to a significant drop in temperatures. This initiative will be effective from Wednesday evening, November 26, through Saturday morning, November 29, aiming to address urgent needs amidst extreme cold conditions.
Expanded Shelter Capacity and Services
As part of the plan, emergency shelters will operate with increased capacity, including a temporary winter shelter established at 1306 Versailles Road, which will offer an additional 216 beds for adult men and women. Open from November 15, 2025, to April 1, 2026, this facility will provide crucial protection against the cold. To ensure accessibility, Lextran is offering free fixed-route rides to these shelters. Furthermore, enhanced outreach efforts will help inform individuals about available shelter options.
Background on Lexington’s Homelessness Response
The Emergency Winter Weather Plan is a continuation of Lexington’s commitment to combat homelessness, particularly in severe weather. The city’s Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention works alongside community partners to ensure comprehensive support, including seasonal shelters and transportation services that help vulnerable populations access safe housing during colder months.
Community Support and Volunteer Opportunities
Community participation is essential for the success of these efforts, and residents are encouraged to look out for neighbors who may need assistance during the frigid weather. Those interested in contributing further can find volunteer opportunities through organizations like the Catholic Action Center and the Hope Center, which critically depend on community support to offer necessary services to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Staying Informed and Safe
As the cold weather continues, Lexington’s emergency management teams are closely monitoring the situation. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and adhere to safety guidelines, such as dressing in layers and protecting exposed skin when outdoors. For more information regarding shelter locations and services, individuals can reach out to the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention or visit the official city website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Emergency Winter Weather Plan in Lexington?
The Emergency Winter Weather Plan is a coordinated response by the City of Lexington to provide immediate shelter and support to individuals experiencing homelessness during extreme cold weather conditions. It includes activating additional shelter capacity, offering free transportation to shelters, and conducting outreach efforts to inform and assist those in need.
How can I access the temporary winter shelter at 1306 Versailles Road?
The temporary winter shelter at 1306 Versailles Road is open from November 15, 2025, to April 1, 2026, providing 216 additional beds for adult men and women. Lextran is offering free fixed-route rides to this shelter to ensure accessibility for those in need. For more information, contact the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention.
How can I volunteer to help individuals experiencing homelessness in Lexington?
Residents interested in volunteering can reach out to local organizations such as the Catholic Action Center and the Hope Center. These organizations offer various volunteer opportunities to support individuals experiencing homelessness, including assisting with shelter operations and outreach programs. For more details, visit their respective websites or contact them directly.
What should I do if I encounter someone in need of shelter during the cold weather?
If you encounter someone who may need shelter during extreme cold or other harsh weather conditions, contact the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention at (859) 280-8274 or via email at [email protected]. After business hours, reach out to the street outreach team at (859) 551-8053 or (859) 556-1870. In case of an emergency, call 911.
Key Features of Lexington’s Emergency Winter Weather Plan
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Expanded Shelter Capacity | Activation of additional shelter beds, including a temporary winter shelter at 1306 Versailles Road, providing 216 extra beds for adult men and women. |
| Free Transportation Services | Lextran offering free fixed-route rides to shelters to ensure accessibility for individuals seeking shelter. |
| Community Outreach Efforts | Increased outreach to inform individuals about available shelter options and facilitate their access. |
| Volunteer Opportunities | Encouragement for residents to volunteer with local organizations such as the Catholic Action Center and the Hope Center to support individuals experiencing homelessness. |
| Safety Guidelines | Recommendations for residents to dress in layers and keep exposed skin covered when outside during cold weather. |
Now Happening on X
- @FOX56News (November 27, 2025, 6:22 AM): Lexington’s Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention activated the Emergency Winter Weather Plan on Wednesday to provide expanded shelter amid freezing temperatures. View on X
- @LEX18News (November 26, 2025, 2:03 AM): Lexington Police investigated reports of shots fired on the 1700 block of Jennifer Road around 7:15 p.m., after which a male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound. View on X
- @LEX18News (November 25, 2025, 1:15 PM): Lexington police are investigating after a woman arrived at a local hospital on Monday night with non-life-threatening injuries from a gunshot wound. View on X
- @LEX18News (November 25, 2025, 10:30 PM): Lexington’s Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention activated its Emergency Winter Weather Plan on Tuesday, expanding shelter capacity as freezing temperatures approach. View on X
- @WKYT (November 26, 2025, 2:10 PM): The community’s Emergency Winter Weather Plan will be activated starting Wednesday evening, November 26, to support vulnerable residents during the cold snap. View on X
- @WVLK (November 26, 2025, 7:01 PM): Emergency Winter Weather Plan is now in place for Lexington to address the ongoing cold weather and assist those in need. View on X
- @FOX56News (November 26, 2025, 2:26 PM): While investigating shots fired on Jennifer Road, police noted a male victim who had been shot showed up at an area hospital. View on X
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