Stepforward

Community service and housing assistancestep forward helps individuals and families in cuyahoga county overcome barriers to employment, housing, and financial stability. In 2024, the agency distributed $4 million in remaining covid relief funds, bringing total home relief assistance to more than $36 million since the pandemic. Step forward also provided 400 free tax returns, supported 83 mothers through parenting and early childhood education programs, and helped more than 250 clients build job skills and career readiness through partnerships, training, and outreach events.

Energy assistance -step forward helps low-income households maintain essential utility services through the home energy assistance and percentage of income payment plan programs. In 2024, the agency received 34,580 applications and provided services to 34,134 individuals, with 98.7 percent receiving assistance. Step forward distributed more than $6.6 million in total aid, including energy, crisis, and water assistance, ensuring households remained safe and connected throughout the year.

Food programs

Other programs