Kentucky, November 25, 2025
The Kentucky Association of Health Plans (KAHP) has announced a $500,000 grant to Samaritan, a community organization, to support homeless individuals in Louisville and Lexington. The funding aims to assist 500 Medicaid members during the holiday season, addressing critical barriers to stability such as transportation and essential clothing needs. Samaritan, collaborating with various community organizations, aims to provide robust support to those in need, ultimately contributing to broader efforts to combat homelessness across the state.
Lexington, Kentucky – KAHP Awards $500,000 Grant for Homeless Support
In an effort to bolster support for the vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness, the Kentucky Association of Health Plans (KAHP) has announced a significant $500,000 grant for Samaritan, a community organization dedicated to aiding individuals facing unstable housing conditions in Louisville and Lexington. This funding is strategically aimed at assisting 500 Medicaid members during the critical holiday season, showcasing a commitment to addressing the pressing needs of Kentuckians encountering substantial barriers to stability.
Objectives and Impact of the Grant
The primary goal of the grant is to help individuals in Louisville and Lexington overcome various challenges, such as transportation issues and lack of essential clothing for employment. By partnering with trusted community organizations, Samaritan provides a platform that empowers frontline providers to work closely with clients, setting practical goals that enhance engagement with care and essential support systems. The funding will not only help expand existing partnerships in Louisville but also fortify the establishment of new programs in Lexington, with a focus on tracking progress through regular updates on care engagement and housing advancements.
Samaritan’s Community Contributions
Samaritan, which launched in Louisville in 2022, has already made significant strides in supporting local inhabitants. Collaborating with notable organizations like Goodwill Kentucky, Volunteers of America Mid-States, and St. Vincent de Paul, Samaritan has successfully connected 331 Kentuckians with vital resources that enable them to secure treatment, prepare for employment, and pursue stable housing. Evaluations from similar programs across various states reveal that this model leads to a remarkable 21% reduction in emergency department visits, underscoring the importance of connecting people to primary care and necessary supports.
KAHP’s Role in Community Support
Tom Stephens, the CEO of KAHP, stressed the transformative potential of timely assistance in the lives of individuals facing adversity. Emphasizing the significance of small supports delivered at opportune moments, this initiative highlights how community-driven efforts can effectuate real change for those in need of stability.
Additional Initiatives Against Homelessness in Kentucky
The $500,000 grant for Samaritan aligns with broader state efforts to tackle homelessness. In a notable initiative, the Department of Veterans Affairs recently awarded nearly $14.5 million in grants to two Kentucky organizations focused on assisting homeless veterans or those at risk. Additionally, a $500,000 grant from the Jewish Heritage Fund will aid in providing temporary housing for an increasing number of young adults facing homelessness in Louisville, emphasizing a growing awareness and action in addressing this critical issue.
Key Takeaways
The KAHP’s investment in Samaritan reflects a growing commitment to combating homelessness in Kentucky, as evidenced by collaborative partnerships and the establishment of targeted programs. By focusing on innovative support strategies and engaging community efforts, this initiative can contribute positively toward improving stability for individuals in need across Louisville and Lexington.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the $500,000 grant awarded by KAHP?
The grant aims to support 500 Medicaid members in Louisville and Lexington who are experiencing homelessness or unstable housing, reflecting a shared commitment to helping Kentuckians facing significant barriers to stability during the holiday season.
How does Samaritan assist individuals facing homelessness?
Samaritan collaborates with community organizations to help individuals overcome critical barriers, such as transportation issues or lack of essential clothing for employment. Through its platform, Samaritan enables frontline providers to set practical goals with clients and offer modest rewards to encourage follow-through.
What other initiatives are in place to combat homelessness in Kentucky?
In September 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs awarded nearly $14.5 million in grants to two Kentucky organizations—Talbert House and Volunteers of America Mid-States, Inc.—to help veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Additionally, in October 2025, the Jewish Heritage Fund announced a $500,000 grant to provide temporary housing for young adults experiencing homelessness in Louisville.
Key Features of the KAHP Grant Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $500,000 |
| Target Population | 500 Medicaid members in Louisville and Lexington experiencing homelessness or unstable housing |
| Partner Organization | Samaritan |
| Grant Objectives | Support individuals in overcoming critical barriers to stability during the holiday season |
| Additional Support | Expansion of partnerships in Louisville and initiation of new programs in Lexington |
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