joseph house of cleveland

Refugee Housing

Joseph House began offering refugee housing in 1997 by renovating an unused convent at St. Philip Neri Church on Cleveland’s east side. After many hours of volunteer time, we were able to welcome our first refugee families in three apartments in the convent building.

Fast forward 25 years, Joseph House now manages 5 newly renovated refugee apartments in the St. Clair/ Superior neighborhood. Each 2 - 3 bedroom apartment is equipped with kitchen appliances and a washer and dryer. Joseph House works with Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services (MRS) to place refugees in our apartments for a period of time until the family has secured employment and a steady income. With the financial support from our donors, Joseph House is able to provide the apartments to newly arrived refugees at a below market price, which gives them time to become established in our community.

Over the years, 132 refugees have lived in a Joseph House apartment.