Ohio Gov. approves funding for people experiencing homelessness in Mahoning Valley
The Ohio Department of Development announced $20.5 million in grants to help Ohioans experiencing homelessness find temporary, emergency shelter and permanent housing.
“Homelessness is a challenge that can only be overcome when we come together,” said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. “This funding not only provides shelter to Ohioans facing difficult times; it gives them hope for a better future, and the opportunity for a fresh start.”
The state approved $20.5 through the Homeless Crisis Response program to assist 47 nonprofit and local government agencies with homelessness prevention, rapid re-housing and emergency shelter services.
The funds will assist 34 agencies operating emergency shelters and support 13 housing stability programs.
Overall, it’s expected to benefit 64,676 Ohioans experiencing homelessness.
“Many people have a perception about what homelessness is, but the truth of the matter is, it comes in many different forms and circumstances,” said Lt. Governor Jon Husted. “When we can address the root causes of homelessness, it helps many children and families get back on track and lead hopeful, successful lives.”
Mahoning Valley awards
A $300,000 grant is coming to the Catholic Charities Regional Agency to provide rapid re-housing assistance to eligible recipients in Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull counties.
The program expects to assist 154 households during the next two years, according to the Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development.
“One of our greatest strengths lies in the partnerships we build with local leaders to address the most pressing challenges facing our communities,” said Mihalik. “These funds ensure our partners have the resources they need to provide shelter, support, and stability to thousands of Ohioans each year.”
Columbiana County
In Columbiana County, the Community Action Agency will receive a $836,000 grant to provide rapid re-housing and homelessness prevention assistance.
The Community Action Agency’s program expects to assist 140 households with rapid re-housing and 95 households with homelessness prevention in Carroll, Columbiana, Harrison, Jefferson and Tuscarawas counties.
Trumbull County
The Greater Warren Youngstown Urban League, Inc. will receive a $203,000 grant to operate a 25-bed emergency shelter serving homeless single men, single women and households with children.
Funding will support grant administration, data collection, evaluation and shelter operations, including housing-focused case management and housing search and placement.
The program expects to serve 535 people with 50% of people projected to exit to a permanent home after an average stay of 40 days.