Zepf Center’s HOPE program receives $1.5M federal grant to connect homeless people to housing, employment opportunities

The Zepf Center in Toledo is expanding its support services for homeless individuals after securing a $1.5 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This funding will be split between community behavioral health clinics and the Homeless Outreach and Person-Centered Engagement program, better known as HOPE.

Since 2018, the HOPE program has worked to improve quality of life by connecting participants with stable housing and local employment opportunities. According to Chief Recovery Officer Craig Gebers, the process involves more than just finding a place to live. Staff members provide guidance on budgeting and retention strategies to ensure participants can maintain their housing long-term.

This investment comes at a time when the need for targeted support is high. Data from a recent report by the National Alliance of Mental Illness highlights that one in five people experiencing homelessness in Ohio lives with a serious mental health condition. By providing resources for both housing and mental health, the Zepf Center aims to help individuals gain the stability required to move forward.

The Zepf Center has served the Toledo community for over five decades. This grant represents a commitment to using public funds to invest directly in people. As Gebers noted, providing the right tools and support allows individuals to realize their potential and find success in the workforce and their personal lives.