Housing First
In November 2001, the Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland, in partnership with the Enterprise Foundation and the Cleveland/Cuyahoga County Office of Homeless Services, convened 17 housing and service providers, foundations, and advocates in the
Housing First Initiative. The Initiative was created to address the challenge of housing the chronically homeless, to learn about the permanent supportive housing model, and to develop a strategy for bringing this model to Cuyahoga County.
The Housing First model of permanent supportive housing is recognized by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development as a best-practice for reducing chronic homelessness. It provides “housing first” – affordable permanent housing where services are available but not mandatory.
The Housing First approach provides housing stability as a first step so that residents are better able to address their other needs. This model quickly places people into stable housing and then links them with services. In contrast, service-enriched housing, and even some transitional housing typically requires services or treatment as a condition for shelter.
Housing First in Cleveland
Emerald Commons
(Detroit Shoreway)
This $8.6 million newly constructed complex is fully occupied and providing intensive outreach and support services to 52 residents.
Liberty at St. Clair Project
(Glenville)
Construction on a 72-unit apartment building at East 100th Street and St. Clair Avenue is currently underway.
South Point Commons Project
(Clark-Metro)
An 82-unit project located directly across the street from MetroHealth Medical Center will incorporate commercial space on the first floor, providing employment opportunities for tenants while generating a revenue stream for the complex.
1850 Superior
(Downtown)
Rehabilitation of a 44-unit apartment building includes reconfiguration of the lobby to provide a single secure entrance, an elevator and additional common space for residents and personnel.
Kingsway Manor
(Tremont)
A privately owned and managed facility at the corner of West 14th Street and Kenilworth Avenue is helping 58 formerly homeless adults achieve housing stability and access mental health and other needed services.
Edgewood Park
(Broadway)
A feasibility study and purchase agreement have been prepared for a proposed site at East 55th Street and Lufkin Avenue.
Housing First: Documenting the Need for Permanent Supportive Housing: Executive Summary
(March 2002)
Prepared for:
The Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland
Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs
Cleveland State University
Housing First: Documenting the Need for Permanent Supportive Housing
(March 2002)
Prepared for:
The Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland
Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs
Cleveland State University
Evaluation of NPI’s Community Organizing Support Program
(April 2002)
Prepared for:
The Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland
Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs
Cleveland State University
