The city of Cleveland will continue its "Home for Every Neighbor" initiative after officials say it found housing for 154 unsheltered residents and closed nearly 50 encampments.
Cleveland City Council approved nearly $2 million in funding Monday for the program to continue another year. That includes funds for a 12-month rent subsidy and other wraparound services.
"I have seen an unbelievably marked difference in folks struggling on the street with housing insecurity since this program has gone into place; like a noticeable, tangible, very real difference," said Ward 3 Councilmember Kerry McCormack.
Last week, the city announced it was ahead of its schedule for goals related to the program, which launched last summer.
The "Home for Every Neighbor" initiative aims to provide more resources, increase options and accelerate the housing process for unhoused people, such as acquiring or building homes and coordinating social services and programs to keep them housed long-term.
Council members were overall supportive, but some cautioned about sustainability. Currently, Cuyahoga County operates a continuum of care through its Office of Homeless Services. The county is also responsible for the homeless shelters.
"I understand the concept of getting the homeless off the streets. I think it’s a great practice. But I don’t think it’s the city’s job to be doing this," said Ward 16 Councilmember Brian Kazy.
Kazy also said the $2 million annual price tag, which will be funded by the city's general fund, may not be "sustainable" long term.
The city began housing people last August. Ward 15's Jenny Spencer urged Mayor Justin Bibb's administration to report back to council about the long-term effectiveness of the project as people begin to hit one year of support.
"Essentially, what we're asking people to do is to completely turn their lives around in 12 months," Spencer said. "That can be a tall order when you've been through trauma."
City officials say they're working with the county to ensure the transition to county resources, such as permanent housing vouchers, if needed.
