Lexington Reports Decrease in Homelessness Amid Ongoing Challenges

Lexington, October 10, 2025

News Summary

Lexington has seen a 5.5% decrease in homelessness, with the latest count showing approximately 2,868 individuals without stable housing. Despite this positive news, concerns over underreporting due to recent legislation and accessibility issues remain. Mayor Linda Gorton is leading a new task force to improve shelter capacity, as experts highlight a shortage of 350 to 500 shelter beds. The temporary winter emergency shelter is set to open November 1, reflecting the urgent need for enhanced support services amidst rising demands.

Lexington has reported a 5.5% decrease in homelessness, according to the third annual street survey released by the Catholic Action Center. The finding indicates that there are approximately 2,868 individuals experiencing homelessness in the city, a reduction from the previous year’s estimate of 3,034. This count encompasses those in temporary shelters as well as those living without permanent roofs over their heads.

Despite the reported decrease, Director Ginny Ramsey emphasized that the findings may not accurately reflect the current situation. This concern arises following the passage of the Safer Kentucky Act in July 2024, which criminalized sleeping outside. As a consequence, some individuals may actively avoid detection by service providers, complicating the counting efforts. Additionally, the Street Voice Council encountered significant challenges while attempting to conduct surveys, particularly when trying to reach those residing in less accessible areas such as deep camps.

The surveyed data suggests that Lexington currently faces a shortfall of 350 to 500 shelter beds to meet the existing demands for homeless services. In response to the growing crisis, a temporary winter emergency shelter is scheduled to open on November 1, while a new city-based task force is forming this month to explore the development of another shelter to address the pressing needs of the homeless population.

In Georgetown, the Gathering Place Mission reported a staggering 200% increase in overnight stays since its inception in 2023, indicating a shifting landscape of demand for homeless services. Heather Johnson, the Executive Director, noted a parallel increase in the number of people seeking meals and hygiene facilities at their location.

A yearly count conducted in January highlighted a worrying trend, with a 32% increase in homelessness in Lexington since 2020. This count, which documented 925 individuals as “literally homeless,” did not account for those facing unstable housing situations, such as couch surfing or residing in motels. The Catholic Action Center’s count included those in temporary housing situations, covering those residing in hospitals or jails.

The need for an increased shelter capacity has been underscored by experts at recent city council meetings. EHI Consultants indicated that establishing low-barrier shelters is critical for serving vulnerable populations that include the elderly and LGBTQ+ individuals, who often encounter challenges in accessing existing shelters. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding families being separated due to a lack of adequate shelter options that cater to their necessities.

To address these issues, Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton is spearheading the new homelessness task force that aims to implement solutions based on findings from EHI’s study. The goal is to improve local shelter services and capacity, ensuring a more supportive environment for those in need.

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Additional Resources

• LEX18 News
• Wikipedia: Homelessness in the United States
• WKYT News
• Google Search: homelessness in Kentucky
• WTVQ News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Homelessness
• Kentucky Lantern
• Google News: Kentucky homeless services
• Spectrum News 1

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