ATHENS, OH — In a significant move to tackle homelessness across Ohio, the Ohio Department of Development has awarded $4 million to four nonprofit organizations, with Hocking Athens Perry Community Action Partnership (HAPCAP) securing the largest share — $2 million — to expand shelter capacity and services at its Athens facility.
The funding, part of the HOME American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) Non-Congregate Shelter program, will support the creation of 31 new shelter units with 47 total beds statewide. These non-congregate shelters offer individuals and families in crisis the dignity of privacy through separate sleeping quarters and bathrooms—an alternative to traditional congregate-style shelters.
“What makes projects like these so impactful is they’re not just giving people a place to put their heads at night; they’re providing hundreds of Ohioans with a fresh start and a new path forward,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development.
Local Impact: HAPCAP Receives $2 Million for Athens Expansion
HAPCAP will use its $2 million grant to add 10 new shelter units at its 135 Columbus Road location in Athens, increasing the total to 30 units and an estimated 48 beds. The project includes significant upgrades to the site, such as:
- Construction of laundry and community spaces inside the existing building
- Addition of playground equipment for families
- Creation of a safe and secure on-site parking lot with security lighting
This development highlights a growing commitment in Hocking County and surrounding areas to providing humane, practical solutions to homelessness while improving long-term outcomes for residents.
Other Statewide Awardees Include:
- Mercy Mission House (Shelby County): $552,852 to renovate multiple buildings into staff housing and shelter units on a 6.4-acre property outside Sidney.
- Axxesspointe Community Health Center (Stark County): $600,000 to convert two Canton properties into 11 units for veterans in partnership with Honor Home.
- Family Promise of Summit County (Summit County): $847,148 to rehabilitate a 10,153 sq. ft. apartment complex in Cuyahoga Falls into a non-congregate shelter.
The investments come at a time of growing need for supportive housing services across the state. These projects aim to offer more than temporary relief—they provide stability, privacy, and a launchpad for personal progress in housing, employment, and health.
The Ohio Department of Development continues to lead initiatives that invest in communities, strengthen infrastructure, and improve the lives of residents throughout the state. For more information, visit development.ohio.gov.
