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The Covid 19 pandemic continues to have a lasting effect on the livelihoods on people across the United States, leaving many without work and in a constant struggle to pay rent and feed families. The Clark County Community Services group offers numerous resources to help ease that burden.

“We have funds tied to preventing people from being evicted,” said Debbie Fatkin, executive director of the Community Services. “If you’re homeless or in an emergency shelter, then we can assist. And if you’re not sure you qualify, just call or stop by.”

Clark County Community Services assists not only with home retention, but also feeding those in need from their warehouse of non-perishable foods and frozen meats. The center accepts donations of food and clothes, and of course will accept monetary donations as well. The organization alsos receives funding from government grants and revenue from its thrift-shop, which Fatkin boasts is more akin to a Macy’s than a Goodwill, as all donations are vetted for quality and clothes are always in season.

For resources the center is unable to provide, the organization points those in need to other groups and programs that can help.

“The Healthy at Home eviction relief program has so many funds available for rent and utilities,” explained Fatkin. “We also tell people who need assistance to get set up on a payment plan with their utility company. And then if they need assistance getting their utilities turned back on or preventing shutoff, Clark County Community Service Center will help while they wait for Healthy at Home funds.”

Fatkin adds that the, for those who qualify, Healthy at Home program backpays rent to when the pandemic started in March of 2020, and also pays rent for a few months in advance.

Clark County Community Services can also assist those in need of drug rehabilitation through the Achieving Recovery Together organization, also create a community to act as a support network

“If somebody calls regarding drug problems, we send them to Achieving Recovery Together. They’re our partners, and if someone needs transportation to a drug rehab facility, we use our funds to transport them,” said Fatkin.

Clark County Community Services is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day except Thursday and Sunday. It’s located at 30 Taylor Avenue in Winchester and can be reached by phone at (859) 744-5034, and online at www.clarkcountycommunityservices.org.

Achieving Recovery Together is located at 37 S. Main Street in downtown Winchester and can be reached at (859) 385-5017 or online at www.achievingrecoverytogether.org.

More information on the Healthy at Home program can be found at teamkyhherf.ky.gov, or by calling (833) 597-3687.