Agency Leaders Advocate for Housing Solutions
MVCAP staff spent a day sharing the stories behind the numbers as they discussed housing insecurity with Ohio legislators.
Staff, partners and former clients joined advocates and social service providers from around the state for an Advocacy Day at the Ohio Statehouse Oct. 8.
Hosted by the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO) provided opportunities to meet with legislators and share stories of how their communities are impacted by housing shortages, affordability and related issues.
MVCAP Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Katie O’Donoghue-Ly led the staff group which also included Preble County Director Janelle Caron, Greene County Director Brent Robinson, Domestic Violence Services Director Courtney Griffith and Greene County Case Manager Nick Trimbach. They were joined by Amy Raynes from the Preble County Mental Health and Recovery Board and Brandy Mouser and Aubrey Salyers from the HIT Foundation. HIT Foundation guests Melissa Curtis and Edie Steel, formerly homeless themselves, shared their stories.
Meetings were held with State Representatives Rodney Creech (R-West Alexandria), Dontavius Jarrells (D- Columbus), Michelle Teska (R- Clearcreek Township) and Andrea White (R-Kettering). Staff also met with aides for Reps. Daniel Troy and Phillip Robinson Jr. The event also included opportunities to hear from other legislators around the state including fair housing champion Sen. Michelle Reynolds (D-Columbus).
“The Representatives we met with were clearly moved, stating that hearing these personal experiences had a profound impact on them,” Caron said. “The case workers in our group also explained how collaborative funding and wraparound services played a key role in supporting these individuals, which was very well received. We focused on the importance of the Ohio Housing Trust Funds and the Housing Crisis, and moving toward solutions.”
Robinson appreciated the engagement he noted from Rep. White as they discussed the impact homelessness has on pre-teens and teenagers who worry about being stigmatized.
“She really made us feel heard,” he said. “She gave us suggestions and engaged further into the conversation.”
“Having individuals with lived experience there to tell their stories was essential to truly grasp the profound impact of homelessness in rural communities,” Griffith added.
In addition to lived experiences, topics included fair market rent requirements, the Homelessness Crisis Response Program and funding for the Ohio Housing Trust Fund.
“Seeing our MVCAP team at the Statehouse advancing affordable housing and support for our neighbors experiencing homelessness and housing instability makes me incredibly proud,” said President and CEO Erin Jeffries. “Advocacy like this moves policy, unlocks resources, and ultimately helps families find and keep safe, stable homes.”
Caron noted that hearing from people who had experienced homelessness humbled her and reminded her that serving isn’t always about providing money.
“Hearing these stories reminded me that simply taking the time to talk with someone in crisis can make a world of difference,” she said. “Even when we can’t offer financial help, showing compassion and listening can help a person feel seen, valued, and cared for. I was reminded of the importance of slowing down, truly hearing someone’s story, and not dismissing them just because immediate resources aren’t available.”
Learn more about MVCAP’s housing programs by clicking here.
Learn more about COOHIO by clicking here.
