On the third Tuesday of each month, a Community Meeting is held to give residents an opportunity to be informed, discuss ideas and share. Be part of the change we want to see for our community. Join us at 6:00PM when we meet with LMPD, and 6:30PM to share with Councilwoman Dr. Barbara Shanklin.

JOIN US ON ZOOM THIS MONTH TO MEET WITH LMPD AND COUNCILWOMAN SHANKLIN:

LMPD:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us//j/99092698789?

pwd=TU5HZUZLQXpkSGN6M0RVWGZZamVSQT09

Meeting ID: 990 9269 8789
Passcode: 7ctnfN

Councilwoman Shanklin:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/92248648621?

pwd=SnN4SHptNENlNldQT0ZPZ1FiUTVmdz09

Meeting ID: 922 4864 8621
Passcode: xVF968

Louisville Metro Police Department 6th Division Questions? Contact Us

COVID-19: Data in Kentucky

Current as of November 05, 2021

Kentucky Coronavirus Monitoring: 

Number Tested: 9,971,646 (PCR:  7,405,702  -  Serology:  397,156 -  Antigen:  1,928,159)*
Positive: 749,596 (Probable:  214,874  -  Lab Confirmed:  534,722)

Deaths: 9,886 (Probable: 1,148 - Lab Confirmed: 8,738)

Positivity Rate: 5.03%**

*PCR is test for COVID, Serology is antibodies test

**Based on a 7-day rolling average; Switched on 10/19/2020 to electronic laboratory reports as the sole source of data for the positivity rate. Learn more about how KDPH determines the Statewide Positivity Rate.  Note:  Data includes cases of COVID-19 reported to KDPH.

Jefferson County Coronavirus Monitoring:

As of November 5th, we have confirmed 120,660 cases, 1,580 deaths, and 45,825 recovered in Jefferson County. Here’s the link to the Louisville Metro COVID-19 dashboard: https://covid-19-in-jefferson-county-ky-lojic.hub.arcgis.com/. 

The city’s COVID-19 data dashboard, a complete list of COVID-19 testing sites, vaccine information, prevention and contact tracing can be found at www.louisville.gov/covid19. The LOU HEALTH COVID19 Helpline is also available: 502- 912-8598

Latest News from Gov. Beshear and the Commonwealth of Kentucky

Gov. Beshear, First Lady Receive COVID-19 Vaccination Boosters

Latest News from Mayor Fischer and the City of Louisville

Metro leaders to discuss plans for 2^nd round of ARP funding to boost public safety, affordable housing and to reduce homelessness

Prevention and deterrence highlighted; Safe Outdoor Space touted

LOUISVILLE, KY (November 4, 2021) – City officials today will testify before the Metro Council Budget Committee on the proposal to invest $78 million in public safety initiatives and $100 million to boost affordable housing and reduce homelessness, both substantial commitments for inclusion in the second round of American Rescue Plan (ARP) spending.

“It’s critical that we use this second round of funding to address and make investments in some of our city’s most pressing needs,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “Thank you to Metro Council for their continued partnership and work to craft the ordinance before the Budget Committee today.”

“Today’s meeting is the next step in the process of allocating local American Rescue Plan funds.  We began by listening to the public, at meetings and through written comments, then set priority areas, and had work groups discuss various ideas within them,” said Metro Council Budget Chair Bill Hollander. “The ordinance filed last week makes recommendations, and the Council is now discussing them. We are all determined to make the best uses of this remarkable opportunity for Louisville.”

These initiatives are included in an ordinance that Mayor Fischer and Council leaders outlined last week, proposing to spend $262.9 million of federal ARP funding on critical initiatives to address challenges in public safety and homelessness, build more affordable housing for the community, continue to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, and recognize the efforts of public employees.

Read more on the proposed ordinance here.

Public Safety:

When he announced plans for the spending on Oct. 26, Mayor Fischer stressed that public safety is his No. 1 priority, “and this funding builds on the whole-of-government work we are already doing to reduce violence and increase safety in every neighborhood.”

That includes $35 million proposed to address public safety reforms recommended by the Hillard Heintze report and ongoing reforms of the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD). Those measures focus on accountability, community engagement and training, with the goal of constitutional and effective policing.

$15.8 million is proposed to expand the Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods’ (OSHN) current Violence Deterrence and Prevention programs that have proven outcomes and long-lasting impact. This includes increased funding for the Trauma Resilient Communities (TRC) initiative within OSHN; increased collaboration on the Group Violence Intervention (GVI) initiative; and expansion of other programs.

“COVID disrupted many protective factors for violence, and our city has experienced a significant increase in violence-related outcomes because of it,” said Dr. Monique Williams, Director, OSHN. “Economic disruption, school disruption, barriers to accessing social services, and increased social isolation all played a role in disrupting activities that generally help keep our city safe. OSHN’s initiatives are designed to address violence with these challenges in mind, understanding that we have to consider both social and structural determinants of health in strategies for violence prevention. The good news is that there is a ton of research and evidence behind this notion, and we’ve created a comprehensive strategy in alignment with that research and best practice.”

Others who will speak about the proposed public safety investments in the proposed ordinance include LMPD Chief Erika Shields, Chief of Public Safety Matt Golden and Chief of Community Building Keith Talley. Those additional investments include:

• Youth Transfer Processing Center: $3 million to create a Youth Transfer Processing Center and hire five Court Sworn Officers to accept youth detainees from police officers, relieving the officers of having to stay with the youth while they are being processed.
• Police Deflection: $2.9 million to add a second LMPD division to the pilot program announced earlier this month to deflect a number of 911 calls to a non-police response.
• Family Recovery Court (Seven Counties): The ordinance would provide funding to continue the Family Recovery Court for an additional year. This initiative is a collaborative, client-centered approach that strives to promote coordination of care, accountability, and healthy outcomes for parents who are involved with the child welfare system and have a history of substance use.
• $117,000 to match a grant provided by Everytown for Gun Safety to hire a data fellow who will provide in-depth gun crime analysis.
• LMPD Technology: $6 million to LMPD for new equipment and increased storage capacity.

Homelessness and Affordable Housing:

The second-round proposal includes $100 million that would support the city’s plan to address chronic street homelessness and boost affordable housing in the city through immediate, intermediate, and long-term solutions. They include:

• Safe Outdoor Space: $1.5 million would go to provide 50 tents, portable facilities and supportive services at a new safe outdoor space pilot project at 212 E. College St. that would include access to electricity and water.
• College Street Property: $7.5 million will be utilized to make necessary improvements to start conversion of the building at College Street to create affordable housing units.
• Permanent Supportive Housing: $32 million for client-centered housing with wrap-around services.
• Affordable Housing: $40 million would be invested in affordable housing units through the Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
• Down Payment Assistance: $4 million for Louisville Metro Government (LMG) to increase down payment assistance to help approximately 150 new homeowners.
• Home Repair: $4 million to boost an existing successful program that helps people stay in their homes; it would aid approximately 150 homeowners.
• HOME ARP Funds: An additional $11 million in HOME ARP funds would be allocated after a federally required community engagement process and HUD approval.

Marilyn Harris, Director of the city’s Office of Housing, has said no one solution exists to the city’s homeless and affordable housing challenges, and the proposed ARP-funded initiatives are designed to work in partnership with the others, and with external partners in the city. By beginning with the Safe Outdoor Space pilot project, the city is aligning with the “Housing First” philosophy promoted by the federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to quickly and successfully connect those experiencing homelessness to housing without preconditions or barriers to entry, such as sobriety, treatment or service participation requirements.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a terrible impact on our city’s most vulnerable and the goal with Safe Outdoor Space is to quickly help those living in unsafe and unhealthy situations on our streets transition into more stable shelter and then put them onto a path to permanent, supportive housing,” said Harris.

Louisville Metro’s Office of Resilience and Community Services is in discussions with service providers about potential wrap-around services – including mental/behavioral health services, recovery services, addiction counseling and employment services – at the site.

Other Metro leaders at the hearing to discuss housing and homelessness include Louisville Forward Co-Chief Jeff O’Brien, Chief of Community Building Keith Talley, and Tameka Laird, Director of the Office of Resilience and Community Services.

Support from external partners:

“The diverse group of thought leaders that were assembled to consider this once-in-a-generation spending on community safety has crafted an innovative and comprehensive plan for Council’s consideration,” said Jennifer Hancock, President and CEO, Volunteers of America. “From more restorative justice programming that can intervene earlier with youth, to a community-based approach to responding to violence, our community has an opportunity to heal and grow in the face of unprecedented violence. Together, with Metro Council, we are committed to achieving the outcomes we all want – a safer community for all.”

“Now is the time for us to invest in a comprehensive public safety strategy that will keep us all safe,” said Anthony Smith, Executive Director, Cities United. “The ARP funding gives us an opportunity to invest in strategies that address the root cause of community violence and strategies that are focused on healing and justice.”

MORE:

• Louisville Metro Government has been allocated $388 million in ARP Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, approved by Congress to meet the most urgent needs of communities across the country as they rebuild from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

• The first round of spending went to COVID-related emergency needs, including $45.2 million for Public Health and eviction prevention, and was approved by Metro Council in June. The ordinance before Council now outlines a second round of spending developed through LMG/Metro Council workgroups. Assuming committee approval, the ordinance could be voted on by the full Council on Nov. 11.

• Early next year, after continued coordination and discussion with Metro Council and community partners, Mayor Fischer and Metro leaders will propose an ordinance for additional ARP funding to address workforce development and healthy neighborhoods.

• Metro Government continues to monitor developments with the proposed federal Build Back Better and infrastructure legislation, to identify additional opportunities to improve the lives of Louisvillians.

Buchino maintains a joint appointment at UofL as Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health and Information Sciences. Since 2019, Buchino has been a consultant for Louisville Metro providing research and programmatic evaluation on multiple homeless initiatives. She was the research study lead on the 2019 report, “Solving Street Homelessness in Louisville, KY: Improving the Climate of Care for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness,” released by UofL’s CIK and Cooperative Consortium for Transdisciplinary Social Justice Research (CCTSJR). Read the full report here.

In her role at UofL, Buchino also is spearheading Louisville’s new alternative responder model, DOVE Delegates, a pilot project aimed at diverting some 911 calls away from a police response and to a mobile crisis response team. UofL’s CIK and Spalding University worked to research and develop the program’s model.

Buchino earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Notre Dame, a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Spalding University, and a PhD in Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences at the UofL School of Public Health and Information Sciences.

“I am honored and excited to join the Homeless Services Division as we work to implement best practices and ensure that our neighbors have access to the resources they need to find and maintain housing," said Buchino. “Houselessness undermines anyone’s ability to feel safe or address any other issue they’re facing, and this division is an important part of RCS’s mission to fight poverty and promote compassion, stability, and the empowerment of residents and communities.”

 For more information about Louisville Metro’s Homeless Services Division, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/homeless-services-division or contact hsdinquiries@louisvilleky.gov.

Louisville Metro solicits request for applications proposal for federal ARP Harm Reduction Recovery Housing funding

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 28, 2021) – Louisville Metro Government’s Accelerator Team issued a request for applications (RFA) proposal for Harm Reduction Recovery Housing, outlined in June as part of the Residential Services for Substance Abuse and Addiction focus listed as one of the priorities during the first round of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding approved by Metro Council in June.

“As the city continues to face the outcomes of the pandemic, it is imperative that we recognize another issue many of our residents are faced with –housing challenges for those dealing with substance abuse,” said Mayor Fischer. “As a compassionate city, we are committed to investing in the resources needed to combat this challenge, and proactively help those residents live in stable housing, and further reduce the risk of preventable overdoses.”

Since the COVID-19 pandemic was first declared a state of emergency, Louisville has experienced an increase in overdose fatalities. Individuals with substance use disorder who are simultaneously experiencing homelessness are at an increased risk for fatal overdoses. Unsheltered individuals experience more isolation than those who are housed; this isolation intensified during the pandemic, which led to fewer opportunities for overdose reversal through lifesaving measures like naloxone.

This RFA seeks to identify and select an organization or vendor that can successfully create and operate twenty units of specialized housing for a pilot Harm Reduction Recovery Housing initiative to reduce the risk of overdose among homeless residents with substance use disorders. The selected organization or vender must have previous experience serving unsheltered and at-risk populations, and have experience partnering with community-based organizations.

Proposals will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Nov. 17, 2021.

Louisville Metro Government (LMG) has been allocated $388 million in ARP Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, approved by Congress to meet the most urgent needs of communities across the country as they rebuild from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

The first round of ARP funding went to COVID-related emergency needs, including $45.2 million for Public Health and eviction prevention. Metro Council and Mayor Fischer developed priority areas for ARP spending: Public Safety; Public Health; Homelessness and Affordable Housing; Workforce Development; and Healthy Louisville/Healthy Neighborhoods. Earlier this week, the Mayor and Metro Council outlined an ordinance proposing to spend $262.9 million of ARP funding on critical initiatives to address public safety challenges and homelessness, build more affordable housing for the community, continue to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, and recognize the efforts of public employees.

For more information, visit www.louisvilleky.gov/accelerator.

Louisville Metro Council News

Call for Artists: Applications open for the fourth annual Art in City Hall exhibition

Artists must submit applications online by November 12

LOUISVILLE, KY (November 1, 2021) – Louisville Metro Council and the city’s Commission on Public Art (COPA) are searching for new artwork to proudly display in City Hall as part of the fourth annual Art in City Hall exhibition.

The annual program, which is administered by Louisville Forward, invites artists to submit original, two-dimensional works of art through an online application process by November 12. The submissions will be reviewed by a Selection Committee comprised of Metro Council and COPA representatives.

“Art in City Hall is a wonderful program that reflects the great and diverse artistic talent that we have in this city. I would encourage local artists to submit their work so that it can be on display for everyone to see walking through City Hall,” said Councilman Mark Fox (D-13), who is part of the Selection Committee.

Up to six artists will be selected for the exhibition. The chosen artwork will be on display for one year in City Hall’s entrance lobby, hallways, and public spaces.

Each artist selected to participate in the exhibition will receive a $500 honorarium.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/arts-culture/art-city-hall-call-artists

SELECTION CRITERIA:

• Submission is consistent with eligibility and specifications, which can be found online.
• Artwork does not pose a health or safety hazard.
• Artwork does not advertise a business, organization, political party, or person holding or seeking office in government.
• Artwork is not interpretable as advocating hate, violence, racism, sexism, bigotry, or obscenity.
• Artist/Artwork seeks to positively influence and expand the cultural fabric of Louisville.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/arts-culture/art-city-hall-call-artists

Office of Resilience and Community Services News

LIHEAP Fall Subsidy Begins November 1

Income eligible residents of Jefferson County can apply for heating assistance

LOUISVILLE, KY (November 1, 2021) - Today Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services began accepting appointments for the annual Fall Subsidy Component of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) now through December 10, 2021, or until funds are depleted.

During LIHEAP Subsidy, individuals or families in Jefferson County at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines who are responsible for home energy cost, whether directly or as an undesignated portion of rent, are eligible for assistance.  Residents can apply regardless of the status of their utility bills.

The Subsidy component provides households a one-time benefit based on income levels and housing category. Payments are be made directly to the heating vendor (i.e. LG&E).

Appointments are required in advance to apply.

*** LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) ***

How to apply: Schedule a drop off appointment in advance at one of the seven LIHEAP Drop Boxes.  Jefferson County residents meeting eligibility can call the automated scheduler at 502-991-8391 or visit online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.

Eligibility: Jefferson County households within 150% of 2021-22 Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Documentation:

• Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
• Proof of all household’s (all members) income from the preceding month. All individuals 18 or over in the household with no income -- and no way to document that status such as a Food Stamp Award letter -- must have a Proof of No Income Form completed prior to applying for benefits. These forms are available at the LIHEAP Drop Box locations or online at louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP.
• Most current heating bill, statement from your landlord if heating expenses are included in your rent, or a statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program.
• LIHEAP Application which can be downloaded at louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP or found at the LIHEAP office Drop boxes.

Copies of LIHEAP documentation, along with the downloadable LIHEAP Application should be dropped off at the RCS site you select, on the day of your appointment.

Applicants will be contacted by RCS staff within 72 hours (3 business days) of the appointment time.

Also during the LIHEAP season, RCS will administer the Home Energy Assistance program – or HEA -- offered by LG&E which provides a monthly benefit (formerly ASAP program).  Eligible residents who are active LG&E customers will be automatically enrolled to be a potential participant for the HEA when they apply for LIHEAP Fall Subsidy.

Only a portion of the applications will be selected to participate in the HEA Program.  More info can be found at https://lge-ku.com/assistance-programs.

For more descriptions about the drop box locations, income eligibility and other instructions, call the automated LIHEAP information line at 991-8391 or visit louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.  Residents may also visit louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP for more details.

Individuals who require more information can contact Metro311 by simply dialing 311 or (502) 574-5000, email metro.311@louisvilleky.gov, tweet @LouMetro311, or download the free Mobile Louisville Metro 311 app from the website. Residents can also call Metro United Way’s 2-1-1 help referral service.

Community Action Kentucky administers LIHEAP in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services who receive the funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. More information about LIHEAP and a listing of LIHEAP outreach offices can be found at the Community Action Kentucky website at www.CAPKY.org.

LIHEAP Vendor Solicitation for 2021-22 Season
Vendor packet is available online or in person  

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 29, 2021) - Vendors wishing to participate in the LIHEAP 2021-2022 program must complete required paperwork and return the appropriate documentation. Vendor Packets can be downloaded from the louisvilleky.gov website by clicking here, or arrangements can be made to pick up in person by calling 502/574-6082.

LIHEAP, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, is a federally funded program that provides financial assistance to help eligible, low-income households meet their home heating needs. LIHEAP vendors are defined as any business that supplies energy, such as rental facilities where utilities are included in the rent or business that provide home heating fuel to individuals applying for the LIHEAP program. Examples of home heating fuel include oil, kerosene, propane, bottled gas, wood, electric or natural gas.

Vendor paperwork will provide information about changes in the LIHEAP program this year and the LIHEAP staff members are happy to address any questions. Vendors who participated in the 2020-2021 program should receive a packet in the mail to update records for this year’s participation.

The Subsidy Component of LIHEAP begins Nov. 1 and ends Dec. 10, 2021 or until funds are expended. The Crisis Component will begin January 3, 2022 and will end March 31, 2022 or until funds are expended. Please contact Brandon Oneal at (502) 574-6082, or visit https://louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP for more information.

Louisville Metro Government is committed to promoting access, equal opportunities, and the meaningful participation by minority-owned, women-owned, and disabled owned businesses in all of its procurement activity.

Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS) administers the local LIHEAP program for Jefferson County residents. For more information about RCS, visit our website at www.louisvilleky.gov/rcs or call 502/574-5050. For more information about Community Action of Kentucky which administers LIHEAP through a network of 23 community action agencies across Kentucky, call 1-800-456-3452.

Office of Advanced Planning and Sustainability News

Louisville Sustainability Summit

The 8th annual Louisville Sustainability Summit organized by the Louisville Sustainability Council (LSC) is coming soon on Wednesday, November 10th, 2021! Join us to learn from the great lineup of local and national speakers, connect with other sustainability-minded Louisville residents, and witness the launch of Louisville's new solarize program! Register at louisvillesustainabilitycouncil.org/summit and enter to win a Local Lou raffle basket at louisvillesustainabilitycounci.betterworld.org.

This year, the LSC is proud to partner with the Louisville Free Public Library to offer a free public screening of the virtual Summit at the Northeast Regional Library (15 Bellevoir Circle, Lyndon) and Shawnee Library (3912 West Broadway, Louisville). Registrations can be made in-person at these library locations.

Driving Electric Together: Join the Green Fleet Challenge!

On October 1, Louisville Metro Government organized a free virtual event to share Louisville's electric vehicle journey, local electric fleet success stories, a guide to local resources, and more. If you missed it, you can find videos and resources from the event at: louisvilleky.gov/government/air-pollution-control-district/drive-clean-louisville.

At that event, Mayor Fischer launched a Green Fleet Challenge to invite local businesses, institutions, and nonprofit organizations to join us in our electric vehicle journey. To participate, we ask that organizations commit to investing in EVs to match Louisville Metro’s fleet. Learn more and take the challenge at 100PercentLou.com/2035!

Louisville joins the Cities Race to Zero

Louisville joins hundreds of global cities in the Cities Race to Zero, a global campaign ahead of COP26 to reduce emissions in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. We invite our regional peers and municipalities across the country to do the same. To learn more about Lousiville's journey towards 100% clean energy, visit www.100PercentLou.com.

LG&E/KU submits 2021 Joint Integrated Resource Plan to the PSC

Louisville Gas and Electric (LG&E) and Kentucky Utilities have submitted the 2021 joint Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to the Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC). IRPs are long range roadmaps developed by utilities that describe how they plan to meet the energy needs of the areas they serve over the next several years. Louisville Metro Government will be submitting comments pertaining to Louisville's Clean Energy Resolution and sustainability goals. Residents can view the IRP filing on the PSC website and submit formal comments by contacting the PSC at psc.info@ky.gov, referencing the Case Number 2021-00393 in the email subject line, and including your full name and residential address in the email body.

KYTC Long-Range Statewide Transportation Plan (LRSTP)

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is developing a Long-Range Statewide Transportation Plan (LRSTP) to identify the goals, policies, needs, and analysis tools that set the direction of Kentucky’s transportation system toward 2045. Approximately 18.7% of Louisville’s carbon emissions come from fossil fuels used in transportation. The LRSTP update is an important opportunity for all Kentuckians to weigh in on the state’s long-term multimodal transportation vision. Everyone has a role to play to help ensure the state’s transportation systems will build a better Kentucky now and well into the future. 

Share feedback and take the transportation survey at GetThereTogetherKY.org before December 6, 2021.

Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods News

National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform outlines financial costs of homicides in Louisville

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 21, 2021) – Today, the Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods (OSHN) released a new study conducted by the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform (NICJR) estimating that each homicide in Louisville costs taxpayers more than $900,000 and each injury shooting costs $508,835 per suspect.

“The data from this report is eye-opening in terms of understanding the full impact of violence on our city,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “In addition to the horrific physical and emotional costs of violence, this report outlines the tremendous financial costs to taxpayers. But most importantly, we are losing sons and daughters, friends, and neighbors to violence, and we must work our whole-of-government, whole-of-city approach to public safety to create a safer and more equitable Louisville.”

The report breaks down the cost of violence into six areas – crime scene response, hospital & rehabilitation, criminal justice, incarceration, victim support and lost tax revenue – and notes that when someone is shot in Louisville, as in jurisdictions throughout the county, there is an immediate and multifaceted response from an array of government agencies, including the Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville Fire Department, Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney and the Coroner’s Office.

Despite an increase in gun violence, the report outlines how Louisville is benefiting from OSHN’s violence intervention and prevention programs. Louisville is one of the first cities to implement a dedicated agency aimed at tackling the increase in occurrences of violence, and OSHN continues to focus on the perpetrator and/or victim, as well as the social and structural determinates that create the conditions to make violence more likely to happen.

“Reducing violence is not an overnight fix; it’s a national problem that costs taxpayers millions every year in our city. With the recent reinvestment by Louisville Metro in the Office, and based on the data of this report, we can now put even more focus on infrastructure needs and initiatives that we know work,” said Dr. Monique Williams, Director of the Office for Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods. “This includes looking at violence from a public health perspective and deploying strategies for prevention and intervention that allow us to address violence from its root to its fruit. We can, and we absolutely must, change the narrative for our city.”

In 2020 alone, Louisville saw an unprecedented and record-breaking number of homicides –  173 deaths. Beyond the loss of life, based on the NICJR’s new costs of violence figure, the growing homicide rate cost Louisville taxpayers at least $155.7 million last year. Already in 2021, a 63% increase in costs has been reported based on homicide data from last year.

“We are proud to partner with the City of Louisville to conduct this analysis of the costs of gun violence to local taxpayers. The enormous costs of each shooting not only has a direct human toll, but everyone in the city pays a price. Investing in effective violence reduction strategies can both save lives and reduce government spending,” said David Muhammad, NCIJR’s Executive Director.

Per the NICJR report, if Louisville saw a 20% reduction in gun violence, that would save the government and taxpayers $62.8 million alone every year.

Louisville Metro Government has a six-pillar approach to tackling violence – community mobilization, prevention, intervention, enforcement, organizational change and development and re-entry – and there are many ways for the community to get involved:

• SummerWorks develops Louisville’s young talent by helping prepare and connect youth to summer jobs, career opportunities, and supportive networks.

• Our One Love Louisville Ambassador Institute is a free, virtual training offered six times a year to citizens wanting to get involved in violence prevention. Participants hear from experts on a range of topics including Mental Health 101, Suicide Prevention, Community Organizing, Conflict Resolution, and The Public Health Approach to Violence. If you want to plug into this work, the Ambassador Training is a great place to start. Contact Joe Newland at 502.780.1794 or newland@louisvilleky.gov.
• The Trauma Resilient Communities project is a federally funded program managed by OSHN. It seeks to promote resilience and equity for youth and families in west and south Louisville – communities disproportionately affected by race-based trauma, systemic inequalities, violence, and civil unrest. They are in the fourth year of their five-year plan to train 200 clinicians and community service providers in evidence-based trauma interventions, as well as offering 400 children and families free therapeutic services. Learn more by contacting Nannette Dix at 502.612.0450 or Dix@louisvilleky.gov.
• OSHN’s Outreach Team is working with residents impacted by violence to ensure resources are available when needed the most, including working with high-risk individuals to prevent violence before it occurs. OSHN also is looking to partner with faith leaders to further coordinate the Safe Haven response – supporting residents struggling with secondary trauma, fear, or frustration as a result of exposure to violence. Interested faith leaders, clinicians, mentors, and violence prevention partners should reach out to Paul Callanan at Callanan@louisvilleky.gov for more information.

FREE Questions, Persuade, and Refer (Q.P.R.) Trainings

The Louisville Chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Louisville) and the Louisville Health Advisory Board (LHAB) have an ambitious goal of training 2,021 Louisville citizens in 2021.  To do so, they are offering several Q.P.R. trainings before the end of the year. Question, Persuade, and Refer are three steps anyone can take to prevent suicide, and through a grant these trainings are currently available for FREE for Jefferson County residents. Trainings are currently being offered virtually, and you can register below to attend one of several available trainings before the end of the year. Register here.

Report Domestic Violence

Kentucky’s domestic violence programs and shelters are OPEN 24/7 and are safe for survivors and their families to receive emergency shelter and supportive services. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence and needs assistance, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, by calling 1-800-799-SAFE, or visiting KCADV.org.

Office for Aging/Disabled Citizens News

Apply for the Next Network Development Learning Collaborative

The National Council on Aging is pleased to announce a call for applications for the next Network Development Learning Collaborative. This 10-month experience will focus on building foundational knowledge and skills to create, enhance, and/or successfully manage community integrated health networks.

The learning collaborative will provide up to 10 emerging networks with targeted technical assistance, a peer learning network, and a platform to share learnings. Training will focus on the fundamental elements of community-integrated health network development including:

• identifying and formalizing network partners
• establishing roles and responsibilities
• understanding key health care quality and performance standards
• building value propositions

Apply by November 12th, 2021

Apply HERE.

Join the Online Dialogue

Advancing Financial Equity for Individuals with Disabilities

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently created a financial toolkit to help people with disabilities make better informed economic decisions throughout their careers. To gather feedback and suggestions on the best ways to improve the toolkit, DOL invites you to join a national online dialogue, “Advancing Financial Equity for Individuals with Disabilities," now through November 8.  This virtual conversation will inform future content enhancements to the Financial Toolkit and help DOL create equitable opportunities for employment and financial empowerment for people with disabilities, specifically those from under-served communities.

All ideas are welcome, but we are specifically looking for input to identify:

• New information and resources to include in the toolkit
• Ways to address under-served and marginalized populations
• Employment-related financial questions and related resources

Visit the online dialogue now through November 8 to submit your ideas and comment and vote on ideas submitted by others. We look forward to hearing from you!

Age-Friendly Louisville Work-Group meetings

We welcome anyone who is interested in participating in the planning and implementation process of Louisville's age-friendly city plan.  Connect with us by joining our email list and attending one of the upcoming domain workshops:

Social Participation, Respect, and Inclusion

Tuesday, November 9th, 2:00pm-4:00pm

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89649134083

Mobility 

Wednesday, November 10th, 2:00pm-3:30pm

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82455193578

Sharing the Load: Building Caregiver Resilience During the Pandemic

Training participants will explore three topics:

Part 1: Understand the Connection: The Impact of Stress on Physical and Mental Health
Part 2: The Cost of Caring: Managing Compassion Fatigue
Part 3: Build Your Capacity: Commit to Caregiver Well-Being and Resilience

1:30pm-3:30pm EST

Wednesday, November 10th
Wednesday November 17th 

To Register Click HERE.

Caregiving: It's a Family Affair

Join AARP Kentucky and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, Eta Omega Chapter in exploring many of the issues involved in being a caregiver. Together, we will hear various speakers on topics of importance to caregivers.

Guest Speakers will talk about:

• 10 warning signs of Alzheimer's Disease
• Legal Issues for Caregivers
• Role of the Caregiver
• Dealing with Stress
• Fraud Awareness

Saturday, November 13th, 2021
11:00am-12:30pm EST

To Register Click HERE.

Learn Best Practices to Reach and Engage Older Adults Living in Rural and Tribal Communities

Older adults living in rural communities and on Indian reservations may face more challenges to participate in social engagement opportunities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, given limited access to broadband internet.

During the webinar, the UMaine Center on Aging will provide background on rural aging and issues that impact older adults living in rural communities, including social isolation. Attendees will also hear from the Jefferson Area Board for Aging and the Wyandotte Nation Title VI Aging Program on the local social engagement activities they have developed to help older adults and caregivers living in rural and tribal communities stay engaged and connected, and strategies other Aging Network organizations can implement.

Friday, November 19th, 2021
1:00pm-2:00pm EST

Click HERE to Register.

Louisville Vacant and Abandoned Property News

Have you ever thought about buying a vacant or abandoned property in Louisville? The city has many vacant or abandoned lots and buildings for sale at all times. If you’re a contractor or fixer-upper, you might consider buying an abandoned home to rehab. Once you fix it up, you could live in it or sell it for a profit. Or you may want to buy a vacant lot or a property in need of demolition, and build a new home. Other properties are suitable for starting a community garden or other agricultural project.

To manage the sale of vacant or abandoned properties, the city has a program called The Landbank Authority. The program’s goal is to put these properties back into productive use. The Landbank currently has about 500 properties available for sale and some are available for as little as $1. But in order to purchase properties, you must be able to prove to the Landbank that you can pay to refurbish or demolish the property, and you must complete the project within a set deadline. To see what’s available, visit the Landbank website. https://louisvilleky.gov/government/community-development/purchase-vacant-property-landbank. You’ll see two links, one for Lots and one for Structures. Choose Lots to view empty lots for sale and an explanation of the types of programs, including “Adjacent Side Yard”; “Cut It, Keep It”; “New Construction”; and “Agricultural Projects”. Choose Structures to see a list of vacant houses and other buildings for sale. Landbank has two categories for the sale of structures: “Save the Structure” and “Demo for Deed”. To save a structure, you must prove you have funds to rehab it and you must complete renovations within six months for exterior and 18 months for interior renovations. To buy a "Demo for Deed," you must simply prove you have funds to demolish the property.

Both the Lots and Structures pages have links and instructions to apply for purchase when you’re ready. Speaking of funds, that’s where we come in. At LHOME, we can’t help you purchase a property but we can help you renovate one. Qualified property owners can borrow up to $30,000 for 12 months, paying only interest on the loan. After the year is up, you can sell your renovated property or refinance it.

To learn more, please visit lhomeky.org or give us a call at 502-882-8091. One last tip: The city has a great tool called Lojic (lojic.org). Lojic lets you search by address for a specific property you want to know more about. Just type the address in the search bar and you’ll get reports about the property owner, the assessed value, zoning, voting district and more. Happy hunting!

My Louisville Home Project

Louisville Metro is seeking licensed, qualified residential contractors to perform rehabilitation services on vacant houses as part of the Louisville/Jefferson County Landbank Authority’s My Louisville Home project. The project is designed to improve homeownership rates in Louisville’s western neighborhoods by performing rehabilitation services on Landbank-owned properties, facilitating a sale directly from the Landbank to an owner-occupant. Project houses have likely been vacant and abandoned for many years and are expected to need exterior, interior, and sometimes structural rehabilitation. Bid closing date is Nov. 9^th at 3:00 PM. Click here to submit qualifications.

We will be having an optional technical assistance session at The Plan Room located at 1815 West Broadway for those interested. Date and time TBD.  If you are interested in attending, please email ASAP Chris Robinson at Christopher.robinson@louisvilleky.gov.

Having issues with high grass, illegal parking, street repairs, or other Code Enforcement concerns in the community?  Contact 311!

Metro311 Service Request Information

• Submit a Service Request in the new system.
• Only service requests for the past 30 days will be accessible in the new system.  If you need information on an older request, please call Metro 311 for status.
• Anything submitted in the old reporting system (prior to June 19, 2019) will not show in the new system.  It is still being processed however. Please call Metro311 for status.
• To receive email notifications of the status of your service request you must have an account and you must have included your email address when you created your account. You can create a new account and report a new issue with Metro 311 by following this link.
• Not all issues you put a service request in for require you to login. Some issues may be submitted anonymously, such as reporting a pothole and property maintenance cases, for instance. But having an account will allow you to track the progress and status of the request.
• The outlined or highlighted area on the map indicates the area which is serviced by Louisville Metro Government.
• If you do not see a category which corresponds to your issue, please call Metro 311 at 311. 

Waste Management News

The Waste Reduction Center at 636 Meriwether Avenue is open. This is a popular disposal site for large loads of unbagged yard waste, tree limbs and stumps up to three feet in diameter, construction debris, and large household items. (Fees may apply.) Residents can dispose of up to four tires, up to three electronic items, and up to three large household items for FREE! Details can be found on the website. Open Tuesday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

********************************************************************************************

Help Stop Illegal Dumping!

• To report materials that have been illegally dumped or "junk" set out on the wrong day, use Metro311 or 574-5000.
• If you WITNESSED A PERSON illegal dumping and have information (pictures, license plate #, etc.), please report it on our new online form.
• Keep an eye out for the vehicles our Enforcement Team is currently looking for! 
• Don't contribute to the problem!
  • If you hire someone to dispose waste for you,ask to see their Waste Hauler License and do not pay without a disposal receipt. Properly disposing of truck loads of materials costs at least $50 - if you're charged less than that, be suspicious. Perpetrators will often take your money and illegally dump your items to avoid the disposal fee. Drop off up to three household items for free at the Waste Reduction Center. (Disposal fees may apply for additional items.) 
  • Only set out junk or bulky items during your scheduled set out period. Residents in the Urban Services District can sign up for set out reminders using the Recycle Coach app. Residents outside of the Urban Services District should call their contracted waste hauler for information. 
• Tips to Prevent Illegal Dumping on your Property
  • Keep your property well lit and clear of overgrown trees and shrubs.
  • Monitor your property - the presence of illegally dumped materials or bulky items set out too early attracts additional dumping. 
  • Install security cameras - send your video or photos anonymously to us and enforcement officers can use identifying information to catch the perpetrator.

********************************************************************************************

Report Street Light Outages to LG&E

If you see a streetlight out in your neighborhood (or anywhere in Louisville), please note the address and report it to LG&E for repair. Click here to fill out the online form to report broken or malfunctioning streetlights. We always recommend adding your contact information to the request, so a technician who has questions can contact you. LG&E makes repairs during the day. Make sure you follow up if the streetlight hasn’t been repaired within seven (7) days.

LMPD News

LMPD reminder:  Please secure your property and stay vigilant!

The city has seen an increase of illegal activity, including vandalism, vehicle thefts, items stolen from vehicles, and gun shots reported over the past year.  Here are several tips from LMPD that may seem simple but could be very effective in preventing crime in our neighborhoods!

Immediately report any suspicious person, activity (gunshots), or vehicles to (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-TIPS.  This is not just for vehicle vandalism but drug activity, home/garage vandalism, gun shots - ANY suspicious activity! Make a police report!

- Never leave anything of value in your vehicle; this includes laptops, purses, GPS devices, and even loose change.
- Always lock your vehicle doors.
- Remove garage door openers from vehicles usually parked outside.
- Do not leave your keys in your vehicle. Do not warm up your vehicles without you in them!
- Do not leave the windows of you vehicle open, or partially open.
- Consider additional lighting around your property; try to park your vehicle in a well-lit area.
- Never leave a firearm unprotected in your vehicle.

Metro Emergency Repair Program

Eligibility criteria:

•    Must be owner occupied for at least one year.
•    Not available on rental property.
•    Must meet income guidelines (see intake staff).
•    May receive assistance once in a five year period.
•    Louisville-Jefferson County only.

Types of repairs:

• Furnace repair or replacement (October-April only).
• A/C unit- repair or replacement (Requires medical statement, available May-Sept. only).
• Electrical repairs/upgrades.
• Water line repairs/replacement.
• Sewer line repairs/replacement.
• Water heater repair/replacement (gas or electric).   
• Gas line leaks.

For further information contact Office of Housing at 574-5850 or homerepair@louisvilleky.gov.

'Dare to Care' Food Pantry open in District 2

Open every 2^nd Monday of the month -- 10am - 12pm

---------------------------------------------

• Serving households in the 40213, 40218 & 40219 Zip Codes Only
• First Come, First Served Basis
• Picture ID & proof of residency required!

Sponsored By: 

Peace Presbyterian Church

4210 East Indian Trail

Louisville, KY  40213

THIS MONTH (NOVEMBER), THIS FOOD PANTRY WILL BE OPERATING ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20th FROM 10am-12pm; THERE WILL BE NO FOOD PANTRY ON THE 2nd MONDAY OF NOVEMBER.  THIS IS TO ENSURE THAT FAMILIES HAVE ENOUGH FOOD FOR THEIR THANKSGIVING DAY CELEBRATIONS!

Louisville Free Public Library News

Louisville Metro Parks News

Canopy Corps (Tree Planting Training)

TreesLouisville is hosting a tree planting training between 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. on November 6th for folks interested in becoming a Canopy Corps member with their organization. You will be trained by a certified arborist and receive a free t-shirt after committing to 4 planting events within a given planting season. To sign up, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/i9hEJifjyVvbfWNy9. For more information, visit https://treeslouisville.org/volunteer/ or email volunteer@treeslouisville.org.

Sunday Fun-Day Planting

Join us downtown for another round of street tree planting! No experience required, tools and guidance provided.

November 7th, 2021: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Contact: Sarah.Flarsheim@louisvilleky.gov / 502-901-8191.

Brightside News

Upcoming Events

Sweep & Sip at West 6th Nulu

Our last Sweep & Sip Event of 2021 will be held this weekend at West 6th Nulu! We have partnered with Young Professionals Association of Louisville and the Downtown Partnership to clean up the surrounding areas of the host brewery. Come out on Sunday, Nov. 7th at 11:30 A.M. to help us keep Lou Litter Free. You can enjoy a free beer afterward, too! Thanks to our wonderful hosts for collaborating with us and treating our awesome volunteers to some of their delicious brews.

Location: 817 E Market Street, Suite 101 Louisville 40206

Metro Animal Services News

Louisville Zoo News

Kroger Wild Winter Days Kicks off With Winter Admission and Food Drive with Dare to Care

The Louisville Zoo’s Kroger Wild Winter Days kicks off Nov. 1, 2021 through Feb. 28, 2022 with discounted winter admission and a Dare to Care food drive.

The Zoo is proud to team up with Kroger and Dare to Care again to help struggling families in our community. Guests who bring at least one canned food item per person may purchase tickets at the Zoo windows for $9.50 per adult and $6.50 per child/senior ticket.

To date, the Zoo has collected nearly 25,000 pounds of food thanks to the generosity of its guests. That is the weight of two African elephants like Mikki.

The discount is available at the gate only; not valid for online purchases. The offer is not valid for special fee-based programs, for prepaid groups, field trips or with other discounts. No refunds will be provided for tickets prepaid in advanced or purchase online. Multiple cans are appreciated but only one discount per admission; additional cans do not provide additional discounts.

Some of Dare to Care Food Bank’s most needed items are canned meats like tuna, as well as canned fruit, beans, peanut butter, soup, rice, cereal, fruit juice, pasta and canned vegetables. Please avoid glass containers. More details are available at www.louisvillezoo.org/wildwinterdays.

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Fall/winter hours continue through March 20, 2022, 10 a.m. ─ 4 p.m. (stay until 5 p.m.). The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

***

The Louisville Zoo, a non-profit organization and state Zoo of Kentucky, is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Kentucky Science Center News

Sign-up now for School's Out Science Camps

Don't delay - make plans now for your child to continue their learning at Kentucky Science Center's Pay by Day camps. Our camp encourages all campers to play, tinker, and investigate the world around them with cool science demonstrations and plenty of time to explore their favorite science center.

With low staff-camper ratios, exciting themes, and extended hours*, Kentucky Science Center is a favorite of parents and kids alike. Learn more and secure your spot here.

Upcoming School's Out Science Camp dates:

November 12
December 20-23, 27-30
January 3, 17
February 21-22

*Kentucky Science Center camps include 8AM drop-off and 5PM pick-up at no additional charge.

Upcoming MakerPlace Workshops

Tinker, hack, design, and build - the Maker movement empowers the next generation of inventors and MakerPlace gives them the tools to explore their creative ideas. Bring your children (ages 8+) for an afternoon of family fun as you work side-by-side on a craft project.

November 6th - String Art
November 13th - Glass Bottle Lamp

Center for Nonprofit Excellence Workshops

You are invited to attend two valuable workshops, hosted by the Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNPE).  Please RSVP in advance to attend these FREE webinars, held virtually via Zoom.

• "Nonprofit Resilience and Sustainability" -- Wednesday, November 10 and Friday, November 12 from 12-1:30pm Link: https://engage.cnpe.org/component/events/event/179
  
  
• "Grant Writing Technical Assistance" -- Thursday, November 18 and Friday, November 19 from 12-1:30pm.  Link: https://engage.cnpe.org/component/events/event/180

More about "Nonprofit Resilience and Sustainability":

Nonprofit sustainability is not just about securing funding but more about long term goals for your programs and fulfilling your mission. In this session, you'll learn about key items to keep your nonprofit sustainable and resilient in good and challenging times.  Topics covered include:

• Sustainability
• Fundraising
• Communication
• Grant writing

More about "Grant Writing Technical Assistance":

Join the Center for Nonprofit Excellence and presenter Jason Adkins for a workshop that seeks to prepare your organization to be competitive when funding opportunities arise in our community. You will leave this session ready to write a high quality grant application!  During this session, we will:

• Review common requirements of grant applications
• Create a work plan for your application
• Consider ways to answer common questions on grant applications
• Learn more about creating and measuring outcomes
• Provide advice, based upon our experience, to your questions

Louisville Metro Special Events News

Off Leash

Nov. 5th, 6:00 PM - 11:00PM

This Friday, join Rockerbuilt for a night of art and activism benefitting Change Today Change Tomorrow. There will be five live bands, spoken word performances, art booths, and drinks. 

Change Today Change Tomorrow is an organization that works to eradicate barriers between education, food justice, and public health in the Black community and other marginalized populations.

$10 in advance, $12 at the door.

1512 Portland Ave., Louisville, KY 40203

Kentucky Veterans Day Parade

Nov. 6th, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Join us this Saturday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM as we honor and celebrate Kentucky area Veterans for their service to our country! 

Enter the Corridor of Freedom at Southeast Christian Church and drive-through waving to Veterans. This parade "in reverse" will feature Veteran & military units who will be stationed along the parade route, while residents are highly encouraged to decorate their vehicles with flags and positive messages for the Veterans! 

This is a family friendly event and a great chance for the kids to participate in thanking the men and women who have fought both in the past and currently to keep our country safe. 

For more information check out our Facebook Event page, or head over to our website! 

Veterans, it is not too late to sign up to participate in the parade! We want to see you there! If you are a US Veteran or Military, please click here and sign up today! 

Thank you, US Veterans for all your sacrifices for our great country. 

920 Blankenbaker Pkwy., Louisville, KY 40243

Out of the Darkness Walk

Nov. 6th, 9:00AM - 7:00PM

The Louisville Out of the Darkness Walk is a full day of community and raising awareness for Suicide Prevention. There are multiple walk waves that kick off at 10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM, and 6 PM. 

There will be several Hope & Healing activities, such as Rock Painting, Hope Boards, & Honor Beads. As well as Education Programs, Food Trucks, and more! This is a great opportunity to learn and share with the community. 

For more information on the walk, reach out to LouisvilleOOTD@gmail.com or visit the AFSP 's website. 

Registration is free for participants, and friendly, leashed dogs are allowed. 

Waterfront Park, 129 River Rd., Louisville, KY 40202

Chili Cook-Off

Nov. 7th, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

No better way to start off the month of November than with a good ol' Chili Cook Off! Head to Air Devil's Inn this Sunday to check out the chilis being entered into the contest! 

Judging will happen from 4:00 - 5:00 and then the chili eating will commence! 

2802 Taylorsville Rd., Louisville, KY 40205

Day Fall Meets at Churchill Downs

Starting at 1:00PM every Wednesday - Sunday, now through November 28th

Fall Meet Days are back! Live racing will be conducted on a Wednesday-Sunday schedule with dark days on Mondays and Tuesdays. Most race days will feature 10 live races. Post time will be 1 PM on most racing days with admission gates open at 11:30 AM. 

Churchill Downs will simulcast the Breeders’ Cup World Championships from Del Mar on Friday, Nov. 5 and Saturday, Nov. 6.

Other special events during the Fall Meet include a free 2022 Churchill Downs Calendar to the first 5,000 guests in attendance on Saturday, Nov. 13. The colorful calendar features major event listings and vivid and memorable images from the Kentucky Derby and around the historic racetrack.

Other fun events include Senior Day (Nov. 4 & Nov. 17), Military Appreciation Day (Nov. 7), Frist Responder Day (Nov. 14), and Sunday Brunch every Sunday! 

For more info on all the events happening at Churchill Downs, check out their Event Calendar. 

700 Central Ave., Louisville, KY, 40208

LouieConnect

Louisville non-profits have launched a new website to help connect people in need of food, shelter, and more.  Metro United Way and the Family Scholar House partnered to create LouieConnect, modeling it on a similar site created in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  When someone uses LouieConnect, the web-based app asks for basic information and then lists applicable resources nearby — from food pantries to shelters to career centers to financial literacy programs.

***Important Metro Services Phone Numbers***

• Air Pollution: (502) 574-6000
• Animal Services: (502) 363-6609 or (502) 361-1318
• Brightside: (502) 574-2613
• Community Services & Revitalization: (502) 574-4377
• Congressman John Yarmuth: (502) 582-5129
• IPL (Code Enforcement): (502) 574-3321
• Legal Aid Society: (502) 584-1254
• LG&E Business: (502) 627-3313 or (800)- 331-7370
• LG&E Residential: (502) 589-1444 or (800) 331-7370
• LMPD 6th Division: (502) 574-2187
• LMPD Anonymous Tipline: (502) 574-LMPD (5673)
• LMPD: (Non Emergency): (502) 574-7111 or (502) 574-2111
• Louisville Forward/Economic Development: (502) 574-4140
• Master Commissioner Jefferson Circuit Court (Foreclosure Sales): (502) 753-4888
• Mayor Greg Fischer: (502) 574-2003
• Metro311: 311 or (502) 574-5000
• Metro Parks: (502) 456-8100
• Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD): (502) 540-6000
• MetroSafe: (502) 572-3460 or (502) 574-7111
• PARC: (502) 569-6222
• Planning & Design Services: (502) 574-6230
• Property Valuation Administrator (PVA): (502) 574-4016
• Public Works: (502) 574-5810
• Solid Waste Management (SWMS): (502) 574-3571
• TARC: (502) 585-1234
• Vacant & Public Property Administration: (502) 574-4016
• Your State Representative or State Senator: http://www.lrc.ky.gov 

Don't know what to make for dinner?  Try our semimonthly recipe suggestion!

Today's recipe comes from allrecipes.com and can be found here.

Best Green Bean Casserole