On average, over 500 people between the ages of 18 and 24 are experiencing homelessness each year in Cuyahoga County, according to groups that work with unhoused populations in the area.
One resource for unhoused youth that is offered in cities across the country is a drop-in center. That is a place where someone can stop in for basic support and amenities, like a meal, or to use a restroom, charge their phone or even do some laundry.
A drop-in center has been in the works for Ohio City on Cleveland's West-side, and it's become the center of heated debate among the residents there.
The center, which would be operated by Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry, would be the first of its kind in Cleveland.
Some neighbors oppose the center, citing safety fears and a lack of details about how the center will be run.
On Tuesday’s "Sound of Ideas," we'll spend some time discussing the proposed drop-in center, and hear from those who support and oppose the project.
Later in the hour, a conversation with New York Times best-selling author Brad Meltzer. He has not one, but two new books out.
GUESTS:
- Conor Morris, Education Reporter, Ideastream Public Media
- Maria Forscia, CEO, Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry
- Kai Cotton, Lead Youth Navigator, A Place 4 Me
- Lola Garcia, Ohio City Resident opposed to drop-in center
- Brad Meltzer, Author, “The Nazi Conspiracy”
