Jessamine County man raising awareness for homelessness

The executive director of the Jessamine County Homeless Coalition, lives "homeless" to help raise awareness to homelessness in the community.

Jessamine County, Ky (WTVQ): For the third straight year. The executive director of the Jessamine County Homeless Coalition, lives “homeless” to help raise awareness to homelessness in the community.
Johnny Templin built a shack. He says his goal is to get the conversation going.

Camped out right in front of the Jessamine County public library  you’ll find Johnny Templin

“A lot of people still today have subscribed to admit that there’s not homelessness in our community,” Templin said.

But when Templin calls this shack home for nearly a week, “I mean it gets the community talking a lot.”

When the temperatures dropped real low last night, Templin says a mom brought her two kids to the shack to see how Johnny stays warm.

“In their PJ’s brought them to see, yes it’s bad but Johnny is safe.”

The porch is open to anyone, Johnny’s willing to listen

“This year it’s been a little bit about some troubles that’s hit individuals, and just sharing that walk. Walking it out.”

About 8 years ago Templin started the Jessamine County Homeless Coalition. Bringing the first shelter to town. This project also sheds light on affordable housing.

“It’s hitting everybody no matter what income level it is. If someone happens in your housing you very well are likely to have a problem at least for a little if not long term trying to get stable again.”

The hope is that this project continues the conversation for years to come, “and also the needs based in our community. Taking a real, realistic look at that and trying to help out where we can.” Here’s more information about the Jessamine County Homeless Coalition.