LexCount is Lexington’s annual point-in-time (PIT) count of all people experiencing homelessness in Lexington on a single night in January. Read our report to access key findings from our 2023 count.
Tag: Homelessness
What is Homelessness?
Ending homelessness begins by understanding what it is. It isn’t a disease or an affliction, it is an inability to pay rent or make the mortgage due to a lack of structural support.
Patty’s Story: I Know What It’s Like To Be Hungry and Cold
Patty’s story is one of triumph, and Lex End Homelessness is committed to supporting clients and partners in our mission to end homelessness in Lexington.
Shawntay and Unique’s Story: “We’ve Been Looking for Y’all”
Homelessness is a traumatic experience. Shawntay is a man of few words, but this quality gives his stories conviction. “Experiencing homelessness was terrible. It was a nightmare, and I hate to have to see anyone else go through what I did,” he said.
Lakelli’s Story: Coming Back Stronger than Before
When Lakelli got the call that she was accepted into the homeownership program, she said she cried and cried, “My kid asked me ‘Are you alright?’ and I told him ‘We’re going to be just fine.’”
James’ Story: Thriving Thanks to the Community
James is a twenty-three year old student at Bluegrass Community & Technical School (BCTC). He’s also employed part-time at Star Manufacturing Inc. here in Lexington. At a first look, James’ promising future and even head on his shoulders would give you no clue to the hardships of his youth.
Scott’s Story: Kindness is Free
His first period of homelessness wasn’t so bad, but this one is worse. “Every time you lie down, someone, or the cops, show up and tell you, ‘You can’t sleep here, you have to go somewhere else.’ But at eleven o’clock at night, it’s hard to find somewhere to sleep.”
Thomas and Martha’s Story: Home Is Where the Heart Is
Thomas is originally from Springfield, Ohio, but moved to Harrodsburg, Kentucky when an acquaintance of his told him he’d have a job and a house lined up for him on his arrival. When he arrived, however, he found out that this job did not exist and neither did the housing he was promised. Thomas was… Continue reading Thomas and Martha’s Story: Home Is Where the Heart Is
Housing First: the Right Approach to Ending Homelessness
Homelessness is first and foremost a housing problem. LexEnd Homelessness believes that housing is the solution to ending and preventing homelessness. To achieve this, LEH and its Continuum of Care providers take a “Housing First” approach–which is proven to be effective, comprehensive and sustainable.
Paul’s Story: I Don’t Want to Have to Start Over Again
Paul McIntosh is about to be evicted from his apartment, even though he has never been late on rent. This is utterly devastating news for Paul because he’s experienced homelessness in the past. He’s unsure how he’ll manage his eviction given his mental and physical health conditions, yet he’s sure that with his faith and… Continue reading Paul’s Story: I Don’t Want to Have to Start Over Again