Founded in 1976 by Father Thomas Bokenkotter, the Tom Geiger Guest House (TGGH) evolved from the work of the Over the Rhine Soup Kitchen. As demands for help for the homeless became pressing in the
1980s, Father Bokenkotter, pastor of Assumption Church in Walnut Hills, evaluated the school building across the street, located at 2631 Gilbert Avenue in Walnut Hills, as a potential housing site. At his request,
the Archdiocese of Cincinnati deeded the former parish school, gymnasium and lands to serve the poor.
Under the direction of Mr. Pat Mechley, a large group of volunteers completely renovated the former
elementary school building into twelve apartments. Labor unions were among these volunteers and most materials were donated.
In 1990 the Tom Geiger Guest House was officially named after the much
loved Tom Geiger who was an active volunteer at the Soup Kitchen. The Tom Geiger Guest House opened its doors in 1991 and welcomed its first family. Continuing in its mission to reach out to the homeless
and provide safe, secure and affordable housing to the homeless, TGGH has expanded.
In the year 2000, a second residential building with twelve apartments named the Gertrude House, was built on the
same former Assumption Church property forming a campus like atmosphere.
|
|
|
