LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) - The West Ohio Food Bank hosted its annual spring resource fair and food distribution on Thursday at the Allen County Fairgrounds. Hundreds of cars rolled through the fairgrounds as volunteers loaded food and household items into trunks. Inside, over 30 booths from local organizations offered information on everything from addiction treatment to housing and mental health services.
“Many of those that we serve didn't know about some of the services that are available through other organizations in the community, so we wanted to do this in conjunction with the food distribution, bringing everybody together, just being able to pass out those resources, make those connections, and just help everybody that needs it”, said Tommie Harner, CEO of West Ohio Food Bank.
Inside, over 30 booths from local organizations offered information on everything from addiction treatment to housing and mental health services.
“In Lima, there's a big need for people out here struggling with addiction. We do a lot of advocacy work for those that are experiencing addiction and struggling”, said Justin Stevens, the community manager of Community Medical Services.
“They serve everyone... I'm glad they have a positive attitude when they meet people. They don't look at people strangely”, said Michael Dowton, who was attending the food distribution.
The West Ohio Food Bank plans to continue hosting the Resource Fair each June, helping connect more residents with the services they need, all in one place.
