LOUISVILLE, Ky. — City crews will begin clearing several large homeless camps on Wednesday. This is happening after a 21-day "clear out" notice was posted in September.
What You Need To Know
- Homeless camps were given 21-day clearing notice
- Resource groups are helping the homeless prepare for clearing
- City shelters say they have space for additional guests
- City is considering operating its own homeless campsite
Nina Moseley is the executive director of Wayside Christian Mission which is located next to Louisville's largest homeless encampment. Moseley said for weeks now, her organizations and others, including city staff, have been working with homeless residents to prepare them for the clearing and get them on the path to more stable housing.
“We try to make it as easy for folks as possible to come into that shelter," Moseley said.
The Wayside Christian Mission is an emergency shelter, clinic and pathway for homeless residents to obtain stable housing.
“We’ve made a commitment to take in anyone who wants to come in as long as there is not a legal reason they can’t come in," Moseley added.
On any given night, 150 to 200 people might be sleeping outside, according to Moseley. She and the city have been closely tracking how many people have been staying outside and how many additional beds area shelters have.
"The city has been making a great effort at doing that and the shelters as well and outreach workers. The goal is to everyone who will come in, under roof, so that we can work with them while they are awaiting housing," she said.
At the same time, Louisville is exploring operating its own homeless campsite, with the help of several nonprofits. Moseley said Wayside has submitted a proposal to provide the meal service. During the pandemic, Wayside started a mobile meal service.
“And we are more than happy to provide food for the folks who will be using the campsite and some transportation services and some respite services," she added.