Off The Streets Van Wert County was established in July 2023 with a clear and focused mission: to help individuals and families experiencing homelessness move quickly into stable housing.

The idea for the chapter began with a conversation. Deacon Ed Irelan, who with the Knights of Columbus started the Toledo chapter of Off The Streets out of St. Joseph Parish Maumee in October 2021, was looking to expand into Lima.

Aware that his friend Deacon Andy McMahon at St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Van Wert was deeply involved in efforts supporting those experiencing homelessness through the Love in the Name of Christ ministry and his help at the local homeless shelter, Deacon Ed made a call. Deacon Andy said tell me more.

As the model was explained, one key truth stood out: many individuals experiencing homelessness already have a source of income. What they often lack is the ability to overcome the initial financial barriers to housing, such as security deposits and utility setup costs.

This was something our community had already seen firsthand. Many individuals staying in the Van Wert shelter were employed or had income but were unable to secure housing due to upfront costs or past challenges that made it difficult to re-enter the rental market.

The solution was both practical and powerful—provide the financial support needed to bridge that gap.

Recognizing the immediate need in Van Wert, Deacon Andy connected with others and began building a foundation to bring an Off The Streets chapter to Van Wert. After forming a board and completing the necessary steps, Off the Streets Van Wert officially launched.

Since the beginning, the impact has been clear. By removing barriers and providing targeted assistance, the organization has been able to help individuals and families move out of homelessness and into stable, independent living—often in a matter of days.

What started as a single conversation has grown into a community-driven effort to create lasting change, one household at a time.