Jones said, “After about 30 years of just working around young people, I started listening to them, and I realized that they were walking around in torment and trauma silently, and they wouldn't say anything or share. But after listening to their stories, they needed help, and they really didn't know how to navigate their mental health journey.”

The town square in downtown Lima was filled with hope and support during the third annual Overdose Awareness event.

“I like to be able to help people if I can on the spot with just different resources if I have them, but I also take that back to our team, and we create different programs and different events and things to help support the health of these people moving forward,” said Cat Lusky, Community Health Coordinator at Mercy Health – St. Rita’s.

“We’re hearing from residents about needing more curbs, more street paving, as well as lighting,” Smith said. “That’s an ongoing discussion we’re having in the city about how we can use our existing resources to be able to deliver those necessities to our neighborhoods.”

Mercy Health – Saint Rita’s has partnered with State Bank to present a three-part series aimed at helping individuals better understand and manage their money. The free workshops, open to the public, will cover topics such as budgeting, savings, and credit repair.

April 6-12 marks National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, a time to raise awareness and support for survivors. Allen and Putnam County Crime Victim Services is working to spread the word about the resources available to those affected by crime.

Area faith organizations got a financial boost on Wednesday thanks to Activate Allen County and Mercy Health St. Rita's.

In 2024, the organization served 179 survivors through its rape crisis and anti-human trafficking program. Advocates emphasize the importance of seeking assistance, offering a range of services to those affected.