About the Issue

In McCracken County, specifically in the city of Paducah, homelessness is becoming increasingly common, with the 2025 K-Count finding 160 homeless individuals in the county. Paducah Cooperative Ministry (PCM) reports that there has been a 41% increase in families being served with PCM’s food programs. In 2024 they supported 800 households throughout the entire year.

Currently Paducah does not have a large-capacity homeless shelter that can take in large amounts of people this winter. This gap in local infrastructure leads to vulnerable populations in the city being at high-risk. However, PCM is currently working on opening a 50-bed shelter. This shelter will significantly help this issue, although it will require constant staffing and volunteers.

The Human Impact

Behind every statistic stated ealier is a local person or family going through a time of dangerous instability. For many, local volunteers and nonprofits are their one point of stability. Without help, many in McCracken County, and across the greater United States can fall victim to chronic homelessness, uncaught medical problems, and unsafe living enviorments. PCM is a pillar of the community, providing necessary aid to those who need it. This year, they have committed to addressing crises in the community, particularly food and housing insecurity.

How you can Help

Unfortunately, there are not many organizations in McCracken County working to address this issue. the primary organization is PCM, which has been mentioned throughout this article. PCM can use volunteers in many areas such as helping at the food pantry. It is likely that when there will be more oppurtunities if you contact them directly here, especially when the new building is constructed. PCM also accepts monetary donations and food donations.