Georgetown library facing homelessness at doorstep

The Georgetown Public Library says they've seen homeless people make a home right outside of their building.

“I think the public just sees homeless as a vagabond sitting on the street corner holding  a bottle of wine and a homeless sign,” said Julie Zenisek, volunteer and Georgetown citizen. She says that's simply not the case.

The Georgetown resident often helps get homeless people off the street in her community. She just recently helped house a woman and her three kids.

“Some friends of mine found the Bennett family living in their car in a Wal-Mart parking lot,” said Zenisek.

It took just ten days for her to get the Bennetts in a new apartment. Homelessness in Georgetown is becoming more common. Eric Lashley with the public library says he's seen them come in and out of his library.

“We're seeing the homeless bringing in their bed rolls and belongings so it's a lot more in your face,” Lashley said. He believes there are obvious reasons they choose the library. “Everybody thinks you’re coming to the library to learn or do something fun or creative. So there's no stigma,” said Lashley.

Lashley is not quick to call the police when he sees them because sometimes all it is, is a cry for help. “We need more transitional housing, that's a must. If they don't have anywhere to go our hands are tied,” said Zenisek.

The library created a new community resources position to help those who are homeless find help Zenisek says many homeless people she sees had regular jobs and lives at one point.

It's a stark reminder, how homelessness can be one missed paycheck away.