‘No one falls through the cracks’: Vandalism, littering turn into a call for community help in London

LONDON, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — London city officials hope to make the city a better place.

The City of London shared on Facebook that the police department and code enforcement responded to a call reporting possible vandalism and littering.

“However, what they discovered upon arrival was not just a case of property damage or littering, but rather a poignant reminder of the complex challenges facing our society,” city officials said.

When officials arrived, they said that they encountered a homeless couple who were seeking refuge in the area that was drawn to their attention.

“This encounter serves as a stark illustration of the intersection between law enforcement and the broader social issues of homelessness, poverty, and mental health. Mayor Weddle went out to see the situation. As the mayor, he believes in understanding the good and bad situations of our city and what we can do to improve the quality of life for residents,” city officials said.

The post affirms that as they face a commitment to protect the safety and well-being of all of their residents, they recognize their duty to address the root cause of these situations.

“It’s not just about responding to incidents but about fostering a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” city officials said. “We understand that addressing homelessness requires more than just enforcement; it requires collaboration, empathy, and proactive solutions.”

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London is reaching out to organizations in their community that can assist the city in better serving its residents.

“We recognize the invaluable role that churches, organizations, and compassionate individuals play in providing resources for those in need of help. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, there are countless ways to make a difference,” city officials said.

If you are part of an organization that provides services for recovery, income, shelter, or mental health, reach out to us at improving@londonky.gov. Officials ask that you include basic information such as the organization name, location, service provided, hours, and requirements.

They hope to create a webpage listing available resources in the community.

“Together, we can build a safer, more compassionate community for all,” city officials said. “Let’s stand together to ensure that no one falls through the cracks and that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Our city’s strength lies in our unity and our unwavering commitment to the well-being of every individual.”

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