Jessamine County, Kentucky — In response to the ongoing need for winter clothing and support, the Shepherd’s House Recovery Community Center has initiated a donation campaign aimed at assisting vulnerable residents during the colder months. This initiative comes after Kentucky experienced a nearly 10 percent drop in drug overdose deaths, prompting Governor Andy Beshear to designate Jessamine County as a recovery-ready community.
Shepherd’s House is currently accepting warm winter clothing and monetary donations. Program Director Kate Holway emphasized the urgent need for items such as coats, sweatshirts, blankets, gloves, hats, socks, boots, sleeping bags, and tents. Holway requests that donations be clean and in good condition, free of stains or tears. There is an especially high demand for men’s winter clothing and winter boots of all sizes.
The community can drop off donations at Shepherd’s House, located at 380 N 2nd St, from Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. and on Saturdays from noon to 5:30 p.m. The center is closed on Sundays.
In a collaborative effort, Harm Reduction Director Shauna O’Nan partnered with the Jessamine County Food Pantry to facilitate further support. Community members are encouraged to bring canned goods along with clothing donations, which will be transported to the food pantry by staff members.
For those who may not be able to donate physical items, Shepherd’s House accepts cash contributions, which have previously been used to purchase essential winter gear. Holway recounted a past instance where donations provided much-needed items to individuals facing extreme cold, significantly impacting their well-being.
“A man came in absolutely freezing, and we were able to give him a pair of overalls, a heavy jacket, a couple of sweatshirts, socks, and everything,” Holway shared. “I don’t know if it saved his life, but it changed his attitude for that day.”
Last winter, the center’s closet helped 87 individuals seeking protection from the elements. To access the clothing items, visitors are required to obtain a voucher from the local Health Department, which assists in tracking donations and the impact of the program.
Shepherd’s House remains committed to being a safe and welcoming space for anyone in need, where people can come to warm up, enjoy complimentary coffee and snacks, or use available resources such as computers and televisions. Holway emphasizes that the center serves all members of the community, including those not in active recovery.
“If you’re out there in the cold and you come here for warmth, you’re recovering from something,” she stated, adding, “And the coffee is always hot.”
