TOLEDO, Ohio – In response to rising evictions and a growing unhoused community, the Ready to Rent curriculum is expanding across the city. The program, which began in Oregon under the guidance of founder Raina Evans, provides free education on budgeting, renters’ rights and responsibilities.
Local instructors bring the curriculum to neighborhoods
Ten Toledo‑area instructors have been certified to teach the course, including Kristin Gray, who also founded the Golden Soil Foundation – a nonprofit dedicated to preventing eviction. “I believe everyday renters need the knowledge to not only get housing, but maintain housing,” Gray said.
Gray joins other volunteers such as Kristin McKinley, youth coordinator for the Toledo Lucas County Homelessness Board. McKinley has been teaching Ready to Rent for about a year, focusing on young adults who have experienced homelessness. “Understanding a landlord’s perspective and knowing how to protect yourself are essential skills,” she explained.
Free certification and networking support
Participants who complete the six‑session, two‑hour class receive a certificate that can strengthen housing applications. They also gain access to a network of mentors who can serve as references – a crucial advantage for young people lacking traditional support.
“I can then recommend them and be a reference because many young people don’t have those kinds of references,” McKinley added.
Program timeline and enrollment
The next round of classes is set to begin in December, with additional sessions planned throughout 2027. Interested residents are encouraged to contact the Toledo Lucas County Homelessness Board at 419‑245‑4677 for enrollment information.
Ready to Rent’s expansion aligns with local efforts to address homelessness and protect tenants. By equipping residents with practical knowledge, the program aims to reduce eviction rates and promote stable, family‑friendly housing – a core concern for the community.
Community impact
Local leaders and nonprofit partners view the curriculum as a proactive step toward strengthening families and preserving individual liberty through informed housing choices. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to faith‑based and family‑centered solutions that empower residents to achieve self‑sufficiency.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
