As winter approaches, families are living on the street, while programs for the unhoused are strained in Cuyahoga County

The homelessness crisis at the county’s primary shelters is affecting seasonal shelters, too. These facilities, often churches, typically offer accommodation to people who are uncomfortable in traditional shelters – sometimes because they’re coping with mental health problems or are recovering from addiction, said Stephanie Thomas of nonprofit Shelter The People Cleveland.

“It was 32 degrees last night, people were sleeping outside,” Thomas said, after a cold spell in October.

After four unhoused people died in a month, advocates call for reform

Bongiovani was remembered as “inventive” and “the best camper of anyone,” Stephanie Thomas of Shelter the People Cleveland said during the vigil. “His mother is heartbroken. I wish there is more we could have done.”