Founded in 1987 by Lisa Thomas, Sister Mary Frances Harrington, Rev. George Hrbek, Pat Tomcho, and Catherine Lowe, the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH) continues a long-standing tradition of support and advocacy as the successor to the Emergency Shelter Coalition. As a non-profit coalition, NEOCH unites service providers, housing activists, community members, and individuals experiencing homelessness to address and find solutions to homelessness in Northeast Ohio.
NEOCH is a true coalition, bringing together diverse perspectives—from religious organizations and social service providers to people who have lived experience with homelessness. By fostering collaboration, advocacy, and community engagement, NEOCH works tirelessly to ensure that everyone has access to safe, stable, and affordable housing.
Over the years, NEOCH has become the primary resource for homeless advocacy in Northeast Ohio, providing education, awareness, and policy recommendations that empower the community and support long-term solutions. Through its work, NEOCH emphasizes the dignity, rights, and voices of individuals experiencing homelessness, ensuring that their needs remain at the center of regional housing initiatives.
Whether you are a community member, service provider, or policymaker, NEOCH serves as a vital hub for information, advocacy, and coordinated efforts to combat homelessness and create lasting change in Northeast Ohio.