PADUCAH — The Paducah Board of Commissioners is preparing to take the next step in supporting one of the city’s most vital social service providers. During Tuesday’s special called meeting, Mayor Pro-Tem Sandra Wilson initiated discussion on whether the city should provide financial assistance to help build a new 50-bed emergency shelter for Paducah Cooperative Ministry (PCM), a nonprofit known for serving individuals and families facing homelessness or crisis.
The request comes as PCM continues to experience increased demand for housing and assistance. Mayor Pro-Tem Wilson asked that the item be formally added to the agenda for the commission’s next meeting so officials can consider specific funding levels and terms of support. Commissioners unanimously agreed the matter should move forward, allowing for a public decision in the near future.
The new facility would modernize and expand PCM’s shelter operations, which currently operate at or near capacity. Leaders believe the additional beds and improved infrastructure will allow staff to better respond to severe weather needs, family displacement, mental health challenges and emergency situations.
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A key sign of regional support came recently when the McCracken County Fiscal Court approved $200,000 toward the shelter’s construction. The county’s contribution established an early financial foundation for the project and affirmed the urgency of expanding services.
City officials described the effort as a proactive response to growing economic pressures that contribute to housing instability. In Paducah and surrounding communities, rising rent costs, lack of affordable housing and limited emergency placements have all strained local shelter systems. Officials say PCM’s expanded facility will play a critical role in prevention and outreach, offering residents access to temporary relief, job resources, addiction recovery support, and pathways toward permanent housing.
Advocates say the shelter will also include enhanced wraparound services, creating a safer and more supportive environment for individuals as they work to overcome hardships. The project aligns closely with existing community goals focused on long-term stability and reducing the number of people living unsheltered.
As Mayor Pro-Tem Wilson noted, the first step is simply getting the discussion onto the public agenda — something commissioners were quick to support. With that action expected soon, the initiative has gained momentum and could move rapidly into final planning and funding commitments.
The Paducah Cooperative Ministry has not yet provided a full construction timeline, but officials and supporters say the project would meet an urgent need. Commissioners expressed confidence that community partnerships — including government, nonprofits, and private donors — will be key to making the facility a reality.
Originally reported by Todd Hamilton., in West Kentucky Star
