We Can End Unsheltered Homelessness Today

As record cold settles over the region this winter, the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH) remains on the front lines defending the civil rights of unhoused people to access public space, to vote, and secure shelter and housing. Newly opened by NEOCH is a seasonal homeless shelter located on 1530 E. 19th Street. It now offers a warm place to go for up to 45 adults during the coldest months of the year.\r\n\r\nLeading the work is Executive Director Chris Knestrick, who originally joined NEOCH as its sole employee before taking the helm in 2017. Since then, he has grown the organization into one of the most trusted resources and partners for unhoused organizing, advocacy, street outreach, and education. Chris brings over 10 years of experience working on homelessness in Cleveland, and he has also directed advocacy efforts in the international and local community. Chris is committed to community organizing, undoing oppression, and promoting nonviolence that centers the voices of those most impacted by public policy.\r\n\r\nPart of the City Club\'s Local Heroes series, join us as we hear directly from NEOCH Executive Director Chris Knestrick on the organization\'s challenges, priorities, and how we can end unsheltered homelessness today.