Want to Make Changes in your Community?

 

Come Represent at the Homeless Congress!

 

What is the Homeless Congress?

The Homeless Congress is a meeting held between the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH) and residents of Cleveland’s homeless shelters. It is a way for a diverse group of homeless people to come together, share ideas, make connections and engage changes.

 

Who can attend the Homeless Congress?

Anyone who is currently a resident at a local homeless shelter. We also welcome formerly homeless individuals and people who currently sleep out on the street. The Congress especially needs people that can make a commitment and will attend meetings in the long run. We need two steady people to represent each shelter.

 

What has happened at the Homeless Congress?

The Homeless Congress recognizes needs in the community and votes on what to do in response.

ü      The creation of shelter standards.

In the past, reps had problems with their shelters and discovered that there are no basic operational standards for homeless shelters in our city. In response, the Congress created its own shelter standards and is planning to get the legislation passed by the City. All shelter directors have passed the legislation.

ü      Meetings with State and City officials.

Representatives from the Mayor’s office, County Commissioners, representatives from the County Office of Homeless Services and State Representative Mike Foley have joined our meetings. 

 

What are some goals of the group?

We plan to…

ü      Meet with media and politicians to combat stereotypes of homelessness.

ü      Have a say in legislation that affects our population (the closing of Aviation overflow site and the opening of North Point Inn, the idea of a family welcome center, the curfew on Public Square).

ü      Expand job opportunities and housing opportunities for homeless people.

 

Why is this meeting important?

Think of the Homeless Congress as your bridge to City and State officials. The Congress allows homeless people to have a unified voice so that letters can be written, resolutions passed and comments be made all in the name of a recognized organization. The Homeless Congress represents homeless people—women, men, families, street sleepers, veterans, shelter residents, etc. This group is your vehicle to be heard.

 

Are changes really being made?

All reps need to understand that change comes slowly and won’t be noticed overnight. In saying that, legislation has been introduced at the state and local levels that Congress members supported.

 

How can I get involved?

If you’re not sure when the next Congress meeting is, call Sarah at (216) 432.0540. All meetings are held on select Thursdays at 1 p.m. on the second floor (gymnasium) of the Bishop Cosgrove Center (E. 18^th and Payne).

 

Extras?

Each Congress representative receives an all-day RTA pass for attending a full meeting. We also hold two raffles per meeting and each rep has the opportunity to sign up for a free voicemail number. The meetings are a great way to network and to learn of new programs/events in the community.