OUCAN recently joined more that 1,000 like-minded organizations in a letter urging Congress to include language in a forthcoming appropriations bill that would direct the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to renew all Continuum of Care (CoC) grants expiring in calendar year 2026 for a full year. As communities work to prevent and alleviate homelessness, this modest, no-cost extension will allow time for thoughtful policy review while preserving housing for tens of...

How a Personal Hair Journey Reflects the Strength of Working Together in Challenging Times Even as a little girl, I have always been particular about my hair. I remember the heartbreak of discovering my mother couldn’t braid my hair—something that felt essential to fitting in with the other girls at school who wore elaborate cornrows adorned with beads and bows. My own ponytails felt unimaginative by comparison, so I taught myself how to do my hair, determined not to be left out. Fast forward...

OUCAN recently joined the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies (OACAA) and the Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development (COAD) in sending a letter to every member of Ohio's Congressional Delegation urging support for the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG). The CSBG funds many Community Action activities and programs across the state enabling low-income Ohioans to gain financial footing and lift themselves out of poverty. CSBG funding is critical to the work of community action...