New coalition working to combat rising homelessness among families in Cincinnati

CINCINNATI — When you think of homelessness, you probably picture someone on the street. But there's another face you might not see — it's affecting thousands of Cincinnati students.

Cincinnati Public Schools reported more than 4,300 homeless students last year, representing a staggering 77% increase over the past decade. The jump reflects a growing crisis of unstable housing for local families.

"We don't think about our kids," said Rico Blackman, organizing director for the Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition.

They saw a drastic increase in homelessness. Now they're taking their solutions to city council

A personal connection

For Blackman, the issue hits close to home. He recalls childhood memories that took on new meaning as an adult.

"I remember cousins sleeping over my grandma'