January 20, 2026

Following up on our conversation, I also wanted to share a bit of local data for context. Since activating the Boone County shelter in November 2025 through today, we have served 126 individuals, including 119 adults and 7 children. These numbers reinforce just how real and present this need is in our community.

To help answer Melissa’s question from the panel, “How can residents help in the short term and long term?”—below are some practical ways community members can get involved and make a meaningful impact.