The Cincinnati City Council's Budget & Finance Committee held a public hearing on June 3, 2025, where community members passionately advocated for continued funding for local support services. The meeting highlighted the critical role of organizations like the Center for Addiction Treatment (CAT) and Camp Joy in transforming lives and fostering community resilience.

Abraham Vitar, a former client of CAT, shared his personal journey from homelessness and addiction to recovery, crediting the organization with saving his life. He emphasized the importance of funding for CAT, stating that it provides essential services for individuals facing dire circumstances, often serving as a last resort before jail or death. Vitar urged the committee to reconsider any potential cuts to funding, underscoring the organization's life-saving impact.

Alicia Arnold, manager of access and outreach at CAT, echoed Vitar's sentiments, detailing how the organization meets individuals where they are, whether on the streets or in emergency rooms. Arnold, a recovering addict herself, highlighted CAT's role in providing case management and support for those transitioning to stable housing. She called for continued collaboration with city officials to enhance the community's support network.

The hearing also featured Elise Lorbach, the new executive director of Camp Joy, who advocated for maintaining the organization's funding in the city budget. Lorbach noted that Camp Joy has positively impacted nearly 1,000 Cincinnati public school students through leadership training and personal development programs. She emphasized the importance of providing all children, regardless of their background, with opportunities to grow and succeed.

Several Camp Joy alumni, including Abraham Verter and Olivia Carter, shared their transformative experiences with the program. They spoke about how Camp Joy helped them develop leadership skills and confidence, enabling them to give back to their communities. Their stories illustrated the profound impact of the city's investment in youth programs.

The public hearing underscored the vital need for continued financial support for organizations that address addiction recovery and youth development. As the city council considers the budget, the testimonies from community members serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of these services in fostering a healthier and more resilient Cincinnati.