Trio of men in downtown Cincinnati, OH

Dear Mr.Evans:

Thank you for the opportunity to recognize a trio of men in my community who make downtown Cincinnati, a cleaner and safer place to live and work. Two are City of Cincinnati police officers and the third is a social outreach worker who works for Downtown Cincinnati Inc. (DCI). Sgt. Steve Saunders, PO Tim Eppstein and Chico Lockhart work together tirelessly to help the homeless in our downtown get help and housing. There are many complaints about panhandlers and homeless individuals throughout our downtown from the businesses and residents. Steve, Tim and Chico are the first ones called in to address these complaints and their compassion is beyond compare when they engage these folks down on their luck. They know most of them by name and have been quite successful in helping them get housing, and with luck, jobs.

These big, strong, handsome men think nothing of entering the homeless encampments to talk to these people. They climb into places that no one else would ever venture into, especially in the darkness of early morning hours. They check on the "regulars" in severe cold and heat to be sure they are alive. They helped the 2010 Census team be sure they were counted. They work with various social agencies to address their needs and realize some just want to live on the streets. Those who choose life on the streets are given boundaries they must abide by; otherwise they will fall into legal trouble. In most cases there is quiet but mutual respect.

I cannot say enough about the dedication of Steve, Tim and Chico. They are rare individuals who choose to help and find answers rather than turn away those in need.

They help make our City wonderful and I am blessed and proud to know them.

Sincerely yours,
Jeannie Bechtold, CRE Corporation
Cincinnati, OH