A winter rehousing initiative in Ohio is helping more than 40 individuals transition from homelessness into permanent supportive housing, offering stability and renewed hope.
New Ohio Rehousing Program Moves Dozens from Homelessness into Permanent Apartments
After years of living without stable shelter, dozens of Ohio residents are now stepping into apartments they can finally call home, thanks to a winter rehousing initiative supported by the Community Shelter Board.
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For May Robbins and her husband, the journey to stability was long and uncertain. The couple spent nearly five years living in their car, enduring harsh weather and daily uncertainty.
“To be honest, I didn’t think we would make it through the winter,” Robbins said. “We didn’t have heat or anything. If it wasn’t for the hotel, my husband probably wouldn’t have survived.”
Just before winter temperatures dropped to dangerous levels, the couple was selected for a rehousing program funded by the Community Shelter Board and managed by the nonprofit Make-A-Day. Participants are temporarily placed in hotels while waiting for permanent housing placements.
For Robbins, the long wait finally ended on move-in day.
“We honestly never thought we would get there,” she said. “It was exciting. It felt great.”
She signed her lease and received the keys to her new apartment — a moment that marked a significant turning point in her life.
The couple’s new home is part of a permanent supportive housing model. This approach provides affordable, community-based rental housing for individuals who have experienced long-term homelessness and may need additional mental or physical health support. Unlike traditional shelters, permanent supportive housing offers residents stability while connecting them to essential services.
“We ensure they have everything they need to succeed when they transition to a more independent setting,” said Christy Hayes, executive director of Make-A-Day. “They are moving into independent apartments as renters, with the support necessary to maintain that stability.”
Through the program, residents have access to a team that helps with case management, community integration, and other supportive services designed to prevent future homelessness.
This winter season alone, the organization expects to place more than 40 individuals into permanent housing, offering a fresh start to people who once faced extreme housing insecurity.
“I am just glad we finally have a place to call home,” Robbins said. “It’s a wonderful feeling knowing there are people out there who truly care.”
Currently, the program operates only during the winter months, with funding scheduled to end in March. Both the Community Shelter Board and Make-A-Day are seeking additional funding to expand the initiative year-round, aiming to provide continuous support to individuals experiencing homelessness across Ohio.
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