Community Gathers to Remember Those from Homeless Community Lost in 2019
On the longest night of the year, community members, homeless service providers, and homeless men and women gathered to remember those who died in the homeless community in 2019.
Since 2009, December 21st has been designated as Ohio Homeless Memorial Day by Ohio legislators. In its 32nd year, the Cleveland community, led by the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless, has gathered to remember people who have passed away over the last year who have experienced homelessness.
The memorial took place at the West Side Catholic Center with over 100 people in attendance. Nearly 100 names were read, and prayers and words were shared by local faith leaders and homeless advocates.
Special thanks to all who attended and faith leaders from Denison United Church of Christ, West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church, Father Dan Reim, and the West Side Catholic Center.
Rev. Nozomi Ikuta of Denison UCC opens with a prayer and call to action
Rev. Chris Long of West Shore UU prays in memory of those who passed
Besides honoring those lost in 2019, the community also raised their voices to declare a call to action to “Save Metanoia” at Denison UCC, given a “cease of use” notice issued at the church
Photo Credit: Lisa DeJong
