By Lilli Dubler, Building Kentucky
The Isaiah House Community Health Center, a joint venture between Isaiah House, the Commonwealth’s largest Christ-centered nonprofit addiction recovery organization, and Lexington Rescue Mission officially opened its doors to the public this morning. The first-of-its-kind facility in Lexington is accessible to all Kentuckians, especially those experiencing homelessness, offering wrap-around services, including primary care, counseling, parenting classes, intensive outpatient programs, dental services and an on-site pharmacy.
“Our mission is to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of hurting people in the greater Lexington area – and the Isaiah House Community Health Center will do just that,” said Lexington Rescue Mission Executive Director Laura Carr. “Without help, healthcare can be overwhelming and full of barriers. We’re working with Isaiah House to break down those limitations and restore the lives of our neighbors.”
According to the 2023 Lexington-Fayette Community Health Assessment, 41.2% of survey participants reportedly experienced barriers to healthcare, with the top five barriers being appointment availability, inability to afford co-pays, inability to afford prescription medications, not having insurance coverage, and long wait times at the provider’s office.
“As a registered nurse, I know the importance and impact of healthcare,” Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton said. “This new resource tears down the barriers and offers people the support they need, meeting them where they are.”
Appointments are now available at 535 West Second Street in Lexington, with wrap-around services, including primary care, counseling, parenting classes, intensive outpatient programs, dental services, and an on-site pharmacy.
“We’re so excited that this invaluable resource is now open for our brothers and sisters in need,” added Nick Wren, Isaiah House CEO. “Kentuckians from anywhere in the Commonwealth are welcome to these services – our doors are always open.”
Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) joined Isaiah House and Lexington Rescue Mission officials at the ribbon-cutting this morning.
“The Isaiah House and Lexington Rescue Mission are offering a lifeline to so many across Kentucky who have been devastated by addiction, homelessness, and the challenges of accessing care,” said Congressman Andy Barr. “This new Community Health Center will provide vital, wrap-around services to meet people where they are and offer them a pathway to healing and hope. By restoring lives, reuniting families, and equipping individuals to re-enter the workforce, this center will have a lasting impact, not only on the people it serves but on the entire Commonwealth for years to come.”
Of note, after fundraising to support the project, Lexington Rescue Mission contracted Reliance Works, a second-chance employer for people in recovery, to complete the construction of the facility.