Housing & Homelessness
65% of people experiencing homelessness in Summit County were between ages 25 and 64.
why it matters
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Housing stability affects nearly every part of life, from health and employment to education, family stability, and safety.
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In Summit County, homelessness is increasingly affecting people who have not previously experienced a housing crisis. Rising housing costs, limited affordable options, and other financial pressures can quickly push individuals and families into instability.
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Local systems are helping people move into permanent housing, but demand continues to exceed available shelter and housing capacity. Preventing homelessness and expanding access to safe, affordable housing are critical parts of building long-term stability.
by the numbers
Key realities shaping life in Greater Akron.
1 in 2
youth served were couch surfing at program entry with the SCCOC.
157
59
an average of 157 new households sought help each month, while the system had capacity for only 59.
28,608
calls and texts requesting housing assistance were handled by 211 and SCCoC Centralized Intake in 2024.
1 in 5
homeless were reported under the age of 17.
87%
of homeless who exited to permanent housing remained housed for at least two years.
54%
of homeless reported they had no income at the beginning of entry with the SCCOC.
All data presented was obtained from partners and publicly available sources across Greater Akron. Data reflects the most recent information available at the time of collection and may vary by reporting period, geography, or methodology.
prayer
Pray for those without a safe place to call home. Ask God to protect individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability and provide places of safety, dignity, and rest.
Pray for lasting solutions. Ask God to give wisdom to leaders, organizations, churches, landlords, and neighbors working to increase access to safe and affordable housing.
Pray that we would see people, not circumstances. Ask God to help us recognize the dignity and story of every person experiencing homelessness and respond with compassion, relationship, and practical support.