Agencies partner for resource expo at fairgrounds

Community members in need of food — or just information — can obtain either at a resource fair that will take place on Thursday. Several community agencies and nonprofits will gather at the Hancock County Fairgrounds to provide resources and information. The event is being presented by the Food Coalition through the Findlay-Hancock County Center for Civic Engagement. It includes a resource fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with lunch provided by City Mission of Findlay from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. A food distribution will be provided through West Ohio Food Bank from 1-3 p.m. All events will take place in the Buckeye Building at the fairgrounds. Tommie Harner, CEO of West Ohio Food Bank, said many people experiencing food insecurity need not just food, but also help with other things, from utility bills to child care to mental health. The West Ohio Food Bank has successfully held similar events in Lima, and thought it was time to bring resources in Hancock County, too, together in one place, Harner said. She described it as "a one-stop shop," where those in need may come for food or other resources. Resources will range from physical and mental health to workforce development and individual and family needs. Legal Aid of Western Ohio, Open Arms Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services, and OhioKAN (Kinship and Adoption Navigator) are also among organizations that will be present. Attendees will receive nutritional education, easy-to-make recipes and other resources for wellness. Attendees who visit each resource booth can enter a drawing to win one of a few $25 Meijer gift cards. Harner said the West Ohio Food Bank and its partners expect to see some of the people who regularly visit their food distribution events, but she is hoping the event will also attract new people who might not be familiar with all the organizations in the community willing to help with all these needs. Arthurs: 419-427-8494