The Kidney Foundation of Ohio

How does it feel to be told you have kidney failure at the age of 16?  “Brian” felt confused, shocked and scared when he started on in-center hemodialysis and then transitioned to peritoneal dialysis in his home. After just a few years, he was fortunate to receive a successful kidney transplant.

Through everything, his mantra was: “Never give up!” The Kidney Foundation of Ohio offered vital assistance to support Brian's family's financial needs. Grant funding helped with transportation costs and emergency expenses. This fall, Brian starts another journey – college.

Cleveland Housing Network

After escaping an emotionally abusive marriage, my daughter Joy and I became homeless. We lived in a shelter, but I eventually succumbed to depression and turned to drugs and alcohol to mask the pain. I was utterly unrecognizable by any who knew me.

After I was introduced to Cleveland Housing Network and [social worker] Tamika in 2003, my life changed drastically. I have a home. I have conquered my demons. I have returned to college after 10 years, and I have a 4.0 GPA. Eventually I plan to earn a Masters Degree and a Doctorate. My daughter is an honor roll student.

Some people come into our lives to help us fulfill our destiny. I believe CHN came into my life to help me fulfill mine. Every day, I do two things: I wake up and see myself where I want to be and refuse to stop working toward that. And every day, I reinforce to my daughter that she can make it. I teach her to have the confidence that she can do anything.

I know that without the help of CHN, and my strength in God, none of this would have been possible.        —Monique

Collaborative  to End Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery in the U.S. and around the world that subjects youths and adults to force, fraud, or coercion for  sexual exploitation or forced labor. Seven religious congregations – Sisters of the Humility of Mary, Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine, Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, Sisters of the Incarnate Word, Sisters of St. Dominic of Akron, the Congregation of St. Joseph and Sisters of Notre Dame – and lay professionals operate educational and advocacy programs in Cleveland and Canton. Program expansion to Youngstown and western Ohio is planned.