Standing Firm in Uncertain Times
Together, We Rise to Meet Our Community’s Needs
As 2025 draws to a close, YWCA Greater Cleveland stands at a pivotal moment for our community—and for the values we refuse to abandon. Over the past year, a relentless wave of national and local policy shifts has left many feeling disoriented, anxious, and angry. Executive orders and directives have moved to strip funding from nutrition assistance and medical coverage, roll back hard-won civil rights, and criminalize homelessness. For human services providers across Cuyahoga County, this has meant bracing for one blow after another while the needs of our neighbors continue to grow.
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history—43 days of uncertainty that finally ended in mid-November—only deepened the harm. Disruptions to essential services and proposed cuts to Head Start, SNAP, Medicaid, and affordable housing sowed fear and confusion for millions of families, with low-income communities bearing the greatest burden.
These are not abstract policy debates; they are decisions that determine whether children eat, individuals and families remain housed, and people can access lifesaving care.
In the face of this upheaval, YWCA Greater Cleveland has not wavered. Despite shrinking resources and sustained attacks on both our democracy and our community’s coffers, we have honored our commitment to serve Cuyahoga County’s most vulnerable residents—every hour of every day in 2025. For the individuals and families we serve, YWCA programs are not optional supports; they are lifelines.
That work has been possible because of a community that refuses to turn away. Local donors, businesses, and philanthropic partners have stepped forward to ensure we can continue providing shelter, early childhood education, and wraparound services to a growing number of neighbors in need. Alongside our fellow service providers and policy advocates, we have remained a steady presence—whether helping families meet basic needs or guiding them through an ever-changing SNAP and Medicaid landscape.
But service alone is not enough. As the African proverb reminds us, “it takes a village.” For more than 150 years, YWCA Greater Cleveland has been a trusted steward of community resources—and a voice for justice. Over the past nine months, we asked our community what you need most from us, and we listened. Your input has shaped a new strategic plan launching in 2026—one rooted in equity, responsiveness, and collective action.
As economic anxiety driven by housing costs, job insecurity, and ongoing national instability continues to rise, we cannot afford silence or complacency. Now is the time to stand up for policies that protect families, strengthen our social safety net, and affirm the dignity of every person.
We invite you to join us—not only by supporting our programs, but by raising your voice. Advocate for fully funded social services. Demand policies that advance justice rather than deepen inequity. Stand with YWCA Greater Cleveland as we work to build a future grounded in peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
Together, we can meet this moment—and meet our community’s needs.