LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The homelessness crisis impacts many corners of the Louisville community. 

Without a car, some unsheltered people can't access the resources they need to get back on their feet.

"Really, a hot shower means the world," Tab Crutcher, who's experiencing homelessness, said.  "Once you get down, it's really hard to get back up."

Crutcher has lived on the streets of Louisville on and off again for the past 10 years. Data from the Coalition for the Homeless shows he's just one of more than 1,000 Louisvillians experiencing homelessness every day.

"It's very hard to think about other needs when you're facing hunger and being cold," said Shane Schlatter, with the Exodus Community Resource Center.

That's why, rain or shine, the resource center drives around southwest Louisville and picks up people from homeless camps.

"They pick me up, give me a shower and food," Crutcher said. "I didn't think people like this existed. They're genuinely trying to help people feel like people again."

The nonprofit offers showers, food and laundry services. It also partners with other organizations to get unsheltered people identification documentation, vital checks, and access to treatment programs for addictions.

"In a day, we are typically interacting with 15 to 30 individuals who are living on the street," Schlatter said. "Everyone's situation is different. They have a story and meaning."

Organizers spent years building connections and gaining trust in these communities by being there on their worst days.

"Sometimes, it takes months of going around and showing up for people to trust us," Schlatter said.

The center gives people in need clean clothes and hygiene products, but it also gives them hope.

"They deserve it, whether they know it or not," said Schlatter. "They have value. They have a name. Give people the dignity they deserve."

The resource center, which opened in October on Cane Run Road, is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Monday and Friday for men and on Wednesdays for women. Schlatter said the center hopes to have a commercial kitchen for food in the near future. 

If you would like to donate to the nonprofit or volunteer, click here.

Copyright 2023 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.