In HSC’s 2026 State of the Sector report, members reported 4.6 million service encounters in 2025, helping residents navigate rising economic insecurity. Since January 2025, federal funding for local nonprofits has been sharply reduced or cut altogether, while cuts to SNAP and Medicaid and changes to the economy have driven up community need. Most member agencies are still operating, but at a reduced capacity. That isn’t good enough for Central Ohio, especially given the growth the region projects in the coming decade.
What Our Members Told Us
104 agencies responded to our summer 2026 member survey, and 78 completed an additional finance survey.
- 81% report increased demand for their services, and 61% say they are unable to meet it.
- 85% have been forced to limit access to services, including waitlists, longer wait times, shorter duration of services, and even turning away people who are eligible.
- About 40% report having three months or less cash on hand.
- Nearly 90% say inflation has raised their operating costs, and 44% believe it has also increased demand for their services.
- Six member agencies will have closed by the end of the year, and more are at risk.
A Call for Shared Solutions
Our region is growing, and that growth will only widen the gap between what our communities need and the resources available to meet those needs. Our sector requires sustained, reliable funding streams. In March, the Funding Review Advisory Committee, convened by the City of Columbus and Franklin County, recommended new and adjusted revenue sources for human services. We urge our leaders to give those recommendations serious, continued consideration.
We also recommend reviewing proven models from peer communities, such as a separate, predictable funding base for core services and multiyear, outcomes-based contracting. We invite community leaders, funders, and partners to help us identify strategies to bridge the gap.
Our members have adapted to less money and more need without losing sight of those they serve, but adaptation has limits. Creativity and collaboration cannot replace real, sustained investment.