LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of West Central Ohio is receiving a financial boost to support its core programming. The organization has been awarded four grants from the Ohio Department of Public Safety. These Justice Assistance Grants, known as JAG, are designated for projects that enhance the criminal justice system.
BBBS will use the $100,000 in funding to support mentoring programs aimed at keeping youth out of trouble. The funds will be allocated to the four-county programs in Allen, Hardin, Putnam, and now Hancock counties.
Dr. Portia Smith, executive director of BBBS West Central Ohio, emphasized the importance of the funding.
BBBS will use the $100,000 in funding to support mentoring programs aimed at keeping youth out of trouble.
"The programs for our school-based mentoring, where our high school 'Bigs' meet with elementary and middle schoolers in a school setting, and our community-based program, where adults engage with young people in activities to help build their potential for success in society, are vital to our mission," Smith said.
The organization recently relocated to the lower level of the United Way building on South Collett Street. BBBS invites the public to visit and learn more about the agency.
