Our History

Ottawa County Transitional Housing, Inc. (OCTHI) began as a grassroots movement in 1992 by Ruth Ann Belknap- who recognized the need to provide support and encouragement to women who suffered domestic violence in relationships.

Ruth Ann worked with volunteers to form a Board to direct OCTHI's efforts to expand services within Ottawa County to those who had experienced intimate partner violence in the community.

A partnership between the OCTHI Board of Directors with another local non-profit organization purchased a home to provide housing for these women- named Ruth Ann's House (RAH).

Our mission shifted slightly to serve not only women facing domestic violence but also those that were in economic need. OCTHI is funded by the Ohio Department of Development, United Way, the Office of Violence Against Women, and donations.

In 2005, OCTHI formed an Outreach desk after seeing a need in the community for assistance navigating the resources and supports available in Ottawa County. It was named Community Support Services - becoming a distinct program of OCTHI - in 2016.

This program serves as the scaffolding for our families and individuals as they build their confidence and self-sufficiency skills as they navigate out of or around crisis.

OCTHI is a private, non-profit organization classified as a 501(c)(3) and was incorporated in 1994.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide housing, community based support services, and advocacy for individuals and families in crisis.

Our Values

We value and treat all individuals, regardless of the situation, with respect, self-worth, fairness, and privacy.

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We are dedicated to providing high-quality, confidential, and efficient services through community partnerships, family choices, and shared responsibilities that result in effective outcomes.