The Center for Respite Care is a unique organization committed to providing quality, holistic medical care for people experiencing homelessness who need a safe, healing environment after illness or hospital discharge. As the only organization of its kind in its county, and the sole provider in Southwest Ohio caring specifically for adults without homes who are ill and lack a secure place to recover, it fills an essential gap in the healthcare and social service continuum. Founded 21 years ago, the Center operates around the clock, offering medical and nursing care tailored to promote effective healing for its clients. This level of support enables individuals not just to recover physically, but also to take meaningful steps toward breaking the persistent cycle of homelessness.
Located within the Saint Anthony Center, the Center for Respite Care has been able to grow and enhance its services through access to modern, world-class facilities in the heart of its community. The organization provides much more than just medical treatment; it ensures clients have warm beds, nutritious meals, clothing, and essential resources. Case management, resources, and supportive services are integral, empowering individuals to build strong foundations for independence once their recovery is complete. Recognizing the harsh realities faced by those experiencing homelessness—including substandard living conditions, inadequate nutrition, exposure to extreme weather, and scarce healthcare—the Center aims not only to heal immediate health concerns but also to minimize repeat hospitalizations and emergency room visits that are both costly for the community and detrimental to long-term wellness.
Since opening its doors in 2003, the Center has cared for over 1,800 individuals who are sick or injured and have nowhere else to go. Hospitals and traditional shelters often cannot accommodate the specialized needs of those recovering from surgery or acute illness, so the Center serves as a crucial bridge between hospital discharge and stable, independent living. Through its collaborative approach with area hospitals, healthcare providers, and homeless service organizations, the Center transitions clients from crisis to self-sufficiency, offering appropriate care, referrals, and guidance to post-recovery treatment or housing programs.
A vibrant spirit of volunteerism, community support, and charitable giving sustains the Center's work. Over 1,000 individuals, faith groups, foundations, businesses, and other organizations have contributed money, goods, or time to advance its mission. The organization is always in need of comfortable clothing and toiletries for its clients to ensure proper rest and medical recovery. The Transformations aftercare program is a recent initiative designed to assist former clients as they reintegrate into the community, further supporting sustained independence and well-being.
Serving a community where more than 10,000 individuals face homelessness on any given day, the Center for Respite Care continually examines and adapts its funding and operations to respond to evolving needs. Its enduring commitment to compassion, dignity, and holistic care remains at the core of its mission—to enable individuals to recover from illness or injury and rebuild their lives, regardless of their circumstances.