Nearly a month has passed since employees of an East Side health care center received their last paycheck. An email from Northeast Ohio Neighborhood Health Services (NEON) hinted that the staff might be partly responsible for the center’s financial troubles.
The email addressed the recent missed paycheck, suggesting employees hadn’t done enough to help cover expenses. CEO Willie Austin’s message urged staff to generate more revenue to keep the organization running smoothly.
NEON provides essential medical services to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. However, the nonprofit has faced ongoing financial challenges. Last summer, a lender sued NEON for defaulting on a loan, leading the court to consider placing the organization under a receiver’s control, though that decision was paused to allow for negotiations.
U.S. District Court Judge Christopher Boyko noted he received numerous calls from employees anxious about their unpaid wages and insurance issues. Many workers were shocked to find out their health insurance had been terminated, even though deductions had already come out of their paychecks. NEON attributed the delays in payroll to complications related to their federal funding, which amounts to $15.6 million for 2026.
Without pay, employees are struggling to meet basic needs. They report difficulties paying rent, buying gas, and caring for their families. One worker shared how bank fees have piled up due to insufficient funds, saying, “I just want to cry. I can’t keep borrowing from people.”
Despite the challenges, many employees continue coming to work. “We like what we do and the people we work with,” a healthcare provider remarked. They want to keep serving their community amid the chaos.
The lack of health insurance affects many employees. Some have had to cancel medical appointments because they can’t afford treatment without active coverage. NEON is working to reinstate health insurance by January 30, hoping to backdate coverage to December 1.
The impact of these financial struggles is profound. Stress levels are rising among employees, with some reporting physical symptoms like stomach issues. Attempts to clarify situations with landlords or utility companies have added to their anxiety. One employee mentioned having trouble with transportation due to financial constraints.
In this challenging situation, NEON employees seek support. The organization has reached out to the Department of Health and Human Services to expedite federal funding, but uncertainty remains. Employees are left waiting, hoping for resolution while trying to navigate their day-to-day needs.
For those affected, resources like United Way 211 are available, helping connect individuals with necessities like food and housing. A mental health crisis hotline, 9-8-8, is also a vital resource for emotional support during this tough time.
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Northeast Ohio Neighborhood Health Services
