Homeless outreach group bracing for next round of weather after 2 die in louisville from hypothermia

Weekend storms in Kentucky have claimed at least 14 lives, including two homeless individuals in Jefferson County. Louisville Outreach for the Unsheltered's Executive Director, David Smillie, expressed concern for the unsheltered homeless community, which is experiencing grief and fear. Smillie and other organizations distribute essential items to nearly 200 people during cold weather.

Despite shelters and warming centers being available, Smillie noted that many homeless individuals avoid them due to the Safer Kentucky Act (House Bill 5), which penalizes street camping, fearing the loss of their belongings. Some feel uncomfortable in traditional shelters or find them inaccessible. Smillie advocates for more decentralized shelter options and calls for a moratorium on camp clearings during severe weather.

He also encourages the public to alert emergency services if they see someone in distress. White flag shelter operations will continue through Friday.

To read more, visit this link.