Who we are
A bridge, built by this community, for this community
Gesher (Hebrew for “bridge”) is the community benefits, resource and referral center of Agudath Israel of Ohio.
Our story
Founded in 2013, Gesher was created to provide a more modern and proactive approach to helping individuals and families navigate government benefits and community resources. What began as a small initiative assisting neighbors with complex applications has grown into a comprehensive benefits, resource, and referral center serving the Greater Cleveland community.
Today, Gesher serves as a trusted liaison between the community and government agencies, healthcare providers, and nonprofit organizations. We are continually expanding access to programs and services, helping families receive the support they need with professionalism, compassion, and dignity.
Our mission
Gesher is a collaborative non-profit community benefits, resource, and referral center serving the Cleveland community. Our mission is to help our clients access community resources, benefits, and government programs. Our case managers work with clients to identify individual needs, discover appropriate programs, and streamline the application process for the quickest response possible. We pride ourselves on practices that are culturally supportive, individualized, and client-centered, with a priority on maintaining privacy and dignity throughout the process.
Our view
Creating a sense of community and uniting together to support one another are essential keys to a strong future. Gesher is here to bridge the gap and connect families and community members with access to the benefits and resources they need.
What guides us
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Privacy first
Your situation stays between you and your case manager. Always.
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Dignity always
Asking for help takes courage. We treat every client the way we would want to be treated.
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Culturally supportive
We understand our community — its values, its calendar, its needs.
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Client-centered
No two households are alike. Every plan is individualized.
The people behind the bridge
Our team
Mrs. Chana Barrett
Case Manager · Director of Operations
Mrs. Barrett brings nearly a decade of experience working with individuals with disabilities and older adults, enabling functional integration through compassionate care. She provides supportive case management and focuses on developing Gesher’s mission — increasing access, resources, and programming to help more individuals within the community across the full continuum of needs in Cleveland.
Mrs. Chavi Kletski
Senior Case Manager
One of Gesher’s first employees, Mrs. Kletski has been with the organization for over nine years. Her expertise in the intricate details of government social service programs makes her essential to serving our clients, and her professionalism and cheerful personality keep the Gesher office running smoothly. Mrs. Kletski is CEOGC trained and certified.
A division of Agudath Israel of Ohio
Agudath Israel of Ohio leadership
Gesher is a division of Agudath Israel of Ohio, which advocates and builds programs for Ohio's Orthodox Jewish community.
Rabbi Yitz Frank
Executive Director, Agudath Israel of Ohio
Rabbi Yitz Frank has served as Executive Director of Agudath Israel of Ohio since 2013. He works with elected officials, government agencies, and community leaders to advance policies and programs that benefit Ohio’s Jewish community, with a focus on education, school choice, government funding, and public policy.
Under Rabbi Frank’s leadership, Agudath Israel of Ohio has expanded its advocacy efforts and community initiatives, helping strengthen educational opportunities and services for Jewish families throughout the state. Rabbi Frank also serves on the boards and committees of numerous community organizations and institutions and is a trusted advisor to many others..
Rabbi Yaakov Berger
Associate Director, Agudath Israel of Ohio
Rabbi Yaakov Berger serves as Associate Director of Agudath Israel of Ohio, where he works with community leaders and organizations to strengthen and support Ohio’s Orthodox Jewish community. His responsibilities include community programming, communications, and the development of initiatives that benefit Jewish families across the state.
Rabbi Berger works closely with the Gesher team, helping connect families with government benefits and other available resources, while developing programs and services that address the evolving needs of the community.
Stronger together
Community partners
Gesher is a collaborative effort. These organizations make our work possible.
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Cleveland Chesed Center
Food, clothing and household essentials for Cleveland families in need.
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Jewish Federation of Cleveland
The hub of Cleveland's Jewish community, supporting programs across the region.
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Jewish Family Service Association of Cleveland
Counseling, career and community services for individuals and families.
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CHN Housing Partners
Utility assistance, affordable housing and homeownership programs (formerly Cleveland Housing Network).
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Greater Cleveland Food Bank
Northeast Ohio's largest hunger relief organization.
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Cleveland Kosher Food Pantry
Kosher food assistance for families in Greater Cleveland.
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HFLA of Northeast Ohio
Interest-free loans for people facing financial challenges or opportunities.
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Matan B'Sayser
Discreet, dignified financial assistance for community families.
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Lev Miriam – Bikur Cholim of Cleveland
Support for patients and families facing medical challenges.
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Cuyahoga County
Job & Family Services and county programs we work with daily.
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City of Cleveland Heights
Municipal programs including senior services and housing assistance.
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Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C)
Training, certificates and education partnerships for career growth.
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EPI
Employment partnership connecting candidates with local opportunities.
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Step Forward (formerly CEOGC)
Cuyahoga County's community action agency — Head Start, energy assistance (HEAP/PIPP) and anti-poverty programs.
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Home Repair Resource Center
Repair skills workshops, tool loans and home repair assistance.
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The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland
Free civil legal help for low-income Northeast Ohioans.
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Neighborhood Family Practice
Community health centers providing affordable primary care.
Part of Agudath Israel of Ohio
Gesher operates under Agudath Israel of Ohio, advocating and building programs for Ohio's Orthodox Jewish community — and serving every neighbor who walks through our door.
Not sure where to start? Start with us.
One conversation with a case manager can uncover programs you never knew you qualified for. Free, confidential, and judgment-free.