St. Paul’s Community Outreach was founded in March 2005 by St. Paul’s Community Church, United Church of Christ (UCC) as a 501(c)(3) organization to continue and expand upon the church’s 50-year history of outreach and ministry on the near-west side of Cleveland. The Community Outreach Program functions independently of the church with its own board, budget, and executive director.  

 

Mission and Vision Statements

The mission of St Paul’s Community Outreach is to encourage and assist individuals and families in need by providing resources, direction, and support in their efforts to identify and make positive life choices. We respond to all in need without prejudgment or pressure. 

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Our Outreach Program's primary component is a multi-layered Outreach and Service Center - a place of hospitality and assistance. Individuals come to us for help, advice, counseling, and a place away from the street where they can relax in a safe environment. An Outreach Program Manager and Administrative/Medical Assistant, along with our Medical Response Team are ready each day to provide access to the following free services: medical information, food pantry supplies, clothing distribution (including new socks, underwear, and boots in the winter), bus tickets, vouchers for birth certificates and IDs, and telephone usage. We also provide referrals to employment opportunities, housing, drug/addiction treatment programs, mental health and other medical services, legal aid, job search support, life skills training, and other social services as needed. We are located on the corner of Franklin and West 45th (4427 Franklin) on the border of Ohio City and Gordan Square neighborhoods. All are welcome regardless of faith, income, sexual orientation, race, and gender identity!

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OUTREACH CENTER AND SERVICES

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During the COVID-19 crisis, we remain open Tuesday through Friday from 9am to 12pm. However, we have taken precautions to maintain the safety of everyone who utilizes our services. We want to stay open, so it is critical that we try our hardest to respect the health of everyone.

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Please enter the church via the side door. During this time, we are practicing social distancing, limiting the amount of people in the building at one time, and restricting groups from congregating. We appreciate your patience to work with us during the pandemic!

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Food panty

Our pantry is open Tuesday through Friday, 10am- 11:30am, serving zip codes 44102, 44109, and 44113. If this is your first time visiting our pantry, you will need to bring an ID for yourself and some form of identification for the others in your household. Please also bring something that can verify your address, like a piece of mail, as well as proof of income 200% below the poverty line. Those who qualify receive a 3 day supply of non-perishable food each calendar month. If you are unsure about what you need to bring or to see if you qualify, please call 216-651-6250 during our usual outreach hours.

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ID and Birth Certificate Vouchers (Ohio only)

ID and Birth Certificate Vouchers are available Tuesday through Friday, 10am to 11:30am. Individuals must have either a social security card or a document showing their name and social security number. For questions, call 216-651-6250 during regular outreach hours. 

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Medical Response Team

Our Outreach Nurse is available Tuesday through Friday from 9:30-11am. Our nurse can provide free blood pressure screenings, free diabetes checks, free socks and hygiene kits, as well as free counseling on health care needs and other related health problems and concerns. Our medical team can also provide foot exams (cleaning, free socks and shoes), health screenings, HIV/AIDS prevention, testing and care referral, diabetes screening, diet management and emergency care for needs such as bruises, scrapes and burns.  While this type of emergency care may seem minor in nature, it helps to prevent larger health problems in the future.

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Clothing Ministry

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Due to COVID-19 restrictions, our regular clothing distribution is closed until further notice. We will try to respond to clothing related emergencies on an individual basis. 

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Housewarming Kits

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Those interested in receiving a housewarming kit must present proof from a case manager, social worker about your move, or proof of obtaining a new . You will receive a mop, broom, and cleaning supplies for your new home!

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Additional services and amenities

• Free local phone calls (please limit calls to 5 minutes)

• Restrooms (no showers)

• Pastoral counseling as needed (appointment needed)

• Bus passes available with proof of appointment 

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For more information about our Outreach Center, please feel free to call our Outreach Program Manager, Chuck Davenport, Tuesday through Friday from 9am-12:00pm at 216-650-6250. We are here for you!

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Associated Services/Organizations at St. Pauls UCC

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St. Pauls is pleased and honored to share our facilities with other organizations and groups who use our building for their missions and ministries. While our members may be involved in these organizations, they exist outside of St. Pauls Church and do not necessarily share our theological stances or follow our mission statement. 

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• DJAPO Cultural Arts Institute

• Ohio City Self-Defense

• West Side Creation Care Team

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