LOUISVILLE, Ky. – As the snow and ice continue to disrupt daily life in Kentucky, one program is making sure that those most affected are getting the help they need. Goodwill Industries’ Another Way program has stepped up, offering support to Kentuckians struggling to dig out of snow and ice-covered driveways.
The Another Way program is designed to help individuals who are transitioning out of homelessness while also offering support to older residents who may not be able to clear their driveways themselves. Over the past week, the program has cleared ice and snow from 25 homes in the Louisville area, making it easier for residents to get out of their driveways and onto the roads.
How Goodwill’s Another Way Program Helps
Members of the Another Way program have been busy clearing several inches of snow and ice from driveways, sidewalks, and other areas for those who are unable to do it themselves. The work is not just about clearing snow – it’s about helping people regain their freedom and independence, especially for older Kentuckians who need assistance during harsh winter conditions.
One of the individuals helped by the program is Juanita Coogle, a resident of Breckenridge Lane in Louisville. Coogle had been stuck at her home since January 5 due to heavy snow and ice blocking her driveway. With no way to get out and limited supplies in her refrigerator, Coogle was desperate for help. She reached out to Metro311, who connected her with Goodwill’s Another Way program. The team quickly got to work clearing her driveway, and Coogle is now able to leave her home safely.
The Impact of the Another Way Program
Goodwill’s Another Way program not only assists people in need but also provides meaningful work and support for individuals who are transitioning out of homelessness. Many of the program’s participants were once homeless and are now earning wages while gaining valuable work experience. For these participants, helping others is a chance to make a difference in their community while improving their own lives.
Sharon Allgeier, manager of Another Way Homeless Initiatives, explains that the program focuses on prioritizing older residents and others in need. “We’ve been doing this all week,” she said. “It’s really rewarding to see the positive impact we’re having on people’s lives.”
Milton Hampton, one of the participants, shared how much this work means to him: “Goodwill gave me an opportunity for change, and this is part of it. Helping the community through Goodwill means a lot to me.”
Another participant, Tracy Ward, expressed similar feelings: “Helping the community by doing work for the city is really amazing. It really means a lot.”
Prioritizing Older Kentuckians
The city of Louisville works closely with Goodwill to identify homes where older residents are stuck due to snow and ice. These homes are then placed at the top of the priority list. The Another Way program is committed to ensuring that older Kentuckians don’t have to face the dangers of winter weather alone. By clearing snow and ice from their driveways and walkways, Goodwill’s Another Way team helps make sure that these residents can safely get to their vehicles or access medical care, groceries, and other essential services.
A Growing Need for Help
The winter weather in Kentucky has been particularly harsh this year, and many residents have been struggling to clear heavy snow and ice from their properties. While local governments do their best to respond to these challenges, programs like Goodwill’s Another Way are essential in providing on-the-ground support for people who need it most. The Another Way team’s quick and efficient work has made a huge difference for many families, and the program is expected to continue helping those in need as long as the snow and ice remain a problem.
How You Can Help
If you know of an older resident or someone in need of snow and ice removal services, you can contact the city’s Metro311 or reach out directly to Goodwill’s Another Way program. Volunteers and participants in the program are always looking for ways to help others in their community.
Goodwill’s Another Way program is a great example of how people can come together to support one another during challenging times. Whether it’s providing help to clear a driveway or offering work opportunities to those in need, the program is making a real difference in the lives of Kentuckians this winter.
(Source : spectrumnews1.com)
