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Proposal to address homelessness includes funding for low-barrier shelters, more beds

The proposal lists four options for a low-barrier shelter, and funding for more beds, meals and outreach workers through June 30.

Metro Government's plan for using more than $500,000 in mid-year surplus funds to address Louisville's ongoing homelessness crisis features funding for a storage facility and a low-barrier shelter.

The proposal, which was presented to Council by the Office of Resilience and Community Services, lists four options for a low-barrier shelter via Volunteers of America, Wayside Christian Mission, The Healing Place and St. Stephen Baptist Church.

MORE: Low-barrier shelters: The possible solution to Louisville's growing homeless problems

Mentioned in earlier meetings, funding will be provided for housing homeless families and housing and care for homeless persons' pets through June 30. The plan also includes funding for additional beds, cots and mats for those unsheltered, as well as outreach workers to connect individuals to resources throughout the community.

Today was the last day for the plan to be submitted, with the goal of implementing the services no later than January 14.

RELATED: Metro Council approved $500K for temporary fix to homeless crisis

In their December meeting, council members said this proposal is a temporary solution, and a more permanent solution will need to be proposed no later than April 2019.

"Funding for low-barrier shelters and services for those experiencing homelessness will be a budget priority for 2020 as we on Metro Council work through this budget cycle," Councilwoman Barbara Sexton Smith said.

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