A photograh of the Norma Herr Women’s Center and a truck parked in front of it.
Credit: Helen Maynard

By Justin McMullen

An infusion of federal money is set to cover improvements to the Norma Herr Center women’s shelter in Cleveland. 

Cuyahoga County Council on Thursday approved a proposal that will see the county invest $7.9 million from a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development program to renovate the Norma Herr II Non-congregate Shelter.

“This substantial investment will provide a more dignified, respectable experience for residents as they enter the shelter system and begin their journey towards permanent housing,” Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne said in a news release on Tuesday. “The County is committed to supporting those in need and to pursuing long-term solutions to homelessness.”

The Norma Herr Center, located at 2227 Payne Avenue, is a low-barrier shelter for women ages 18-80 operated by the YWCA Greater Cleveland. The shelter serves an average of 170 people each night and also assists unhoused people with finding permanent housing. 

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“The renovation and rehabilitation of this project are long overdue and necessary to provide our residents with safe, decent, and dignified living spaces,” Melissa Sirak, director of the Cuyahoga County Office of Homeless Services, said. “The facility will continue to offer resources and services to assist with securing permanent housing. Additionally, these renovations serve as an investment in the Cuyahoga Continuum Strategic Plan, furthering our efforts to enhance the support for individuals experiencing housing crises.” 

The money comes from HUD’s HOME-ARPA Program, a $5 billion program that was established by Congress in 2021 to provide safe housing options for individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.  

Cuyahoga County opened a newly renovated emergency shelter at 2020 Lakeside Avenue earlier this month, and renovations to the men’s shelter at 2100 Lakeside and Norma Her I are in the works. 

“Ending homelessness begins with providing individuals with the proper resources to move forward on a path to sustainable housing,” said Sara Parks Jackson, Cuyahoga County Director of Housing and Community Development. “Today, we are investing in hope, safety, and a brighter future for those in need.” 

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