UP for Women and Children

Our Story

As Louisville's first women’s-only shelter in the area, UP for Women and Children was created to provide a daytime safe space for women and children experiencing homelessness in Louisville with access to comprehensive services. 

We serve all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, familial status, gender identity, sexual orientation, immigration status, language proficiency, disability, veteran status, political affiliations or beliefs.

Why We Serve

Homelessness isn’t a choice.

More than 11,000 residents in Louisville will experience homelessness at some point in the year. In a survey done in January, homelessness had almost doubled compared to the previous year.

The Coalition for the Homeless reports there are currently nearly 2,000 homeless children in Louisville.

In one study of homeless women, 63% were diagnosed with a mental illness. 58% had concurrent mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders. 22% of the women studied were considered high risk for suicide. (Mental Health, Concurrent Disorders, and Health Care Utilization in Homeless Women. Journal of Psychiatric Practice)

Who We Are

Our Mission is to provide a healthy, safe environment for homeless women and children that offers opportunities and encouragement for achieving self-sufficiency.

Our Vision is to ensure safety for single women as well as women and children who are experiencing homelessness by providing a safe, reliable, and supportive space that offers comprehensive services. By working with additional service providers, we adequately link women, children, and families to vital supports that they need to be empowered.

Our model is simple – partner with anyone and everyone who can help to address the issue of family homelessness: congregations, individuals, cities and counties, and businesses of all sizes. We hope you will join us!