Toledo Streets

In an article written by Executive Director of the North American Street Newspaper Association, Andy Freeze, our own city of Toledo is mentioned (towards the end). The article, written on behalf of Vancouver’s street paper, Megaphone, is a great synopsis on the growth and efficacy of street papers.

“Last July, Street Speech in Columbus, Ohio, had a circulation of 800. In July of 2009, Street Speech had increased their circulation to 7,600. These are just a few examples of how street newspapers throughout North America are beating the odds by increasing circulation and offering a helping hand to those on the street.”

Popularity: 98% [?]

Time for some good news, eh? This article comes from a post on Homeless Tales, and quickly sketches an out-of-the-ordinary story for a hard-working young woman who was determined to make sure she covered all her bases. And guess what? It got her a hit – and, hopefully, will get her home.

Popularity: 100% [?]

From Cherry Street Mission’s Facebook page: “On Thursday, August 13, history was made at Cherry Street Mission Ministries. Construction of our first building in our 62-year history started. This day also marks the expansion of Cherry Street into supportive transitional housing.

“The Caleb House is a new home being built by the community that will be used for supportive transitional housing for men who are ready to take the next step to independence. Thank you to all who are donating their time, talents, and materials.”

Those participating in [the] ceremony included Paul DeWitt, Eaton Corporation; Jim Moline, Moline Builders – volunteer contractor; Miller Brothers; Mayor Finkbeiner; Dan Rogers, President & CEO of Cherry Street Mission Ministries; Christine B. Dziad, The Anderson Fund; Councilmemer Michael Ashford; Bob McCann, current guest at Cherry Street; and Jamie Schmitz, Board Chairman. (Not able to attend: Stranahan Foundation.)

Popularity: 94% [?]

This USA Today article online calls the current crisis of “falling revenue and rising need” a “perfect storm”. The article covers several state cutbacks across the country.

“Nationwide, government figures show that 1.6 million homeless people received shelter last year, largely unchanged from 2007, but the number of families increased 9% to 517,000.”

Popularity: 100% [?]

In this change.org article, Shannon Moriarty argues that while homeless hate crime legislation is needed, it will not change attitudes.

Popularity: 86% [?]

This 13 ABC video and story highlight’s Cherry Street Mission’s latest project, Abigail’s House, set to become Toledo’s newest transitional home for eight unhoused women.

Cherry Street is looking for furniture – couches, beds, chairs, tables. If you have something to donate, please contact them at 419.321.1835.

Popularity: 96% [?]

Steve Samra posts an article on change.org regarding the positive growth of The Contributor, Nashville’s local street paper.

Editor’s note: I had a chance to spend a little bit of time with Tasha French and Mark Lemley of The Contributor while at the NASNA Conference in Denver. Tasha and Mark were very patient and helpful, and have continued to be so as Toledo Streets works on its own launch.

Popularity: 94% [?]

A Wall Street Journal article reporting from Nashville discusses the “rise” of tent cities across the U.S.

“After years of enforcing anti-camping laws to break up homeless clusters, some cities are less inclined to crack down on the homeless because of the recession.”

Popularity: 88% [?]

A story in the Washington Times gives a brief overview of the lack of health care available for the unhoused, including families with children. The proposed health care reform may help solve the issue.

Popularity: 42% [?]

A CNN.com story based out of Los Angeles.

“Vietnam War veterans mentor a new generation of homeless vets in Los Angeles. CNN’s Barbara Starr reports.”

Popularity: 25% [?]