Posts with tag 'Community'

Tired of the cookie-cutter big-box stores with limited selections, inflated prices, and impersonal service? Combine sightseeing and shopping with day trips to the wonderful small towns of Ohio, from Northeast Ohio to Columbus and Cincinnati, where the character and appeal of a traditional "downtown" is alive and well. 

NORTHEAST OHIO

Medina

Founded in 1818, Medina was originally named "Mecca," which means, "a place to which many people are attracted." Residents and visitors agree that the town's friendly atmosphere and "Norman Rockwell" appearance make that an apt description. The charming town square, presided over by the beautiful brick courthouse, is surrounded by Victorian-style buildings that house a number of wonderful shops and restaurants. Support local causes by shopping at The Bookshelf, a used bookstore where all proceeds go to Project Learn, an adult literacy organization. You don't have to have a green thumb to visit the Gardener's Cottage, which offers a full assortment of furnishings, home accessories, seasonal decor, and gifts. Miss Molly's Tea Room and A Cupcake a Day have great treats to sit and enjoy or grab and go. The square, also known as Uptown Park, hosts regular community events such as Art in the Park and International Fest.

Chagrin Falls

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From its picturesque name to the quaint, tree-lined streets, Chagrin Falls maintains a classic small-town feel in a 21st-century world. Noted cartoonist and Chagrin Falls native Bill Watterson featured a picture of his hometown on the back cover of The Essential Calvin and Hobbes Collection. With more than 75 independent shops and restaurants in the village center, you'll find anything you may need or want. The annual mid-summer Sidewalk Sale, featuring live music and kids' activities, has been a Chagrin Falls tradition for more than 70 years. Take a break from shopping to enjoy the view of the town's namesake falls from Bell Street Park, Riverside Park, or the Main Street bridge.

Berlin

Ever feel like technology is taking over your life? Step into a more relaxed way of life with a visit to Berlin. As the oldest existing village in Holmes County, Berlin is the center of the world's largest Amish community. The streets are lined with dozens of shops that carry one-of-a-kind items featuring high-quality craftsmanship. Spend an afternoon exploring Berlin Antique & Craft Malls, two side-by-side facilities where you'll also find the best fudge in the area. If that's not enough, check out Berlin Village Antique Mall, a two-story building filled with classic pieces and collectibles. Sample the cheese, produce, and all the bounty of Amish farms at German Village Market, Bunker Hill Cheese Chalet, and Troyer's Country Market. Don't miss Streb's General Store, where the third generation is running this classic shop.

COLUMBUS

Granville

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If Granville reminds you of a town in New England, that's no coincidence. Settlers from the East Coast planned the Ohio community using familiar concepts from New England villages, right down to sharing the name of their original hometown in Massachusetts. Granville's layout follows the traditional grid pattern, with two major thoroughfares meeting in the center at the town square. Several original buildings, including churches, inns, and private homes, are still standing, with more than 100 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The downtown business district, part of Granville's established historic area, includes boutiques such as Cedar and Thread, featuring clothing and home décor, and Green Velvet of Granville, a Parisian-style shop with an eclectic mix of merchandise. For a modern touch, stop for lunch or dinner at Three Tigers Brewing Company, a craft brewery and taproom that serves Vietnamese-inspired street food.

German Village

As its preservation society proudly proclaims, you don't have to live in German Village to feel like you belong. Located just south of downtown Columbus, German Village is the largest privately funded preservation district on the National Register of Historic Places. Though technically not a town, this neighborhood has gained worldwide recognition as a premier example of successful restoration, retaining much of the same character and appeal as it displayed during its origins in the mid-19th century. The Book Loft of German Village, housed in a pre-Civil War building that takes up an entire city block, is worth a visit all on its own. Other notable shops include Helen Winnemore's, a women's clothing store that originated in its namesake's home, and Vernacular, a clothing and lifestyle boutique that specializes in ethically sourced, organic, and minority-owned brands.

CINCINNATI

Yellow Springs

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Earlier this year, travel website Only in Your State proclaimed Yellow Springs to be one of the coolest small towns in America, referring to it as a "little slice of paradise" based on its charm and originality. Just how cool is it? Comedian Dave Chappelle, whose father was a professor and dean of students at Antioch College in Yellow Springs, still lives here with his wife and three children on a 65-acre farm. Who can resist shops and restaurants such as The Smoking Octopus, a tobacco store located in a uniquely designed building, and Ha Ha Pizza, with its iconic mural featuring a jackalope, gremlin, flying saucer, and the Loch Ness Monster?

Loveland

Shopping is in Loveland's DNA. The town is named for James Loveland, who ran the general store and post office near the downtown railroad tracks. In the 1980s, the railroad corridor was converted to a bike trail that became part of the Little Miami Scenic Trail, which hosts nearly 750,000 hikers and bikers each year. Not surprisingly, Loveland has several shops, such as JackRabbit, Montgomery Cyclery, and Vertical Drop, specializing in clothing and outdoor activities equipment. If indoor pursuits are more your style, make stops at Busy Bee Boutique and Bond Furniture and Design.

Waynesville

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With more than 60 shops and restaurants in a compact, five-block area, you can shop in Waynesville without fear of dropping. Want more credentials? Waynesville is known as the "Antiques Capital of the Midwest," and it has been recognized by USA Today as one of the "Most Walkable Towns in America." Waynesville Antique Mall, housed in a brick building built in 1882, includes nearly 50 vendors offering classic items, collectibles, and historical memorabilia. Don't miss Buckeye Charm, a family-owned retro boutique with an actual vintage truck as its centerpiece.

SMALLTOWN U.S.A.

Friendly residents? Fewer crowds? Good walkability? What's your favorite feature of small towns?

Every year, Women's History Month is celebrated throughout March, and Ohio is home to many fascinating historical sites that are perfect for celebrating this important month. Whether you visit the International Women's Air and Space Museum in Northeast Ohio, the Ohio Statehouse Museum Ladies' Gallery in Columbus, the Harriet Beecher Stowe House in Cincinnati, or one of many other destinations around Ohio, you have endless opportunities to explore women's history close to home. Start your journey with these nine places to celebrate Women's History Month in Ohio.

International Women's Air and Space Museum

1501 N. Marginal Rd., Ste. 165, Cleveland, OH 44114

Located in Cleveland at the Burke Lakefront Airport, the International Women's Air and Space Museum is certainly a must-see Women's History Month destination. Throughout aviation and space exploration history, women have taken to the skies to explore new frontiers. In addition to famed female pilots like Amelia Earhart and astronauts like Sally Ride, this museum explores the many contributions made by women who didn't achieve the same level of fame. The International Women's Air and Space Museum also explores the vast impact made by women on the science, engineering, and advancement of aviation throughout history.

Oberlin College

173 W. Lorain St., Oberlin, OH 44074

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Oberlin College has been a place of many firsts, championing the rights of women and all people throughout its long history. It was the first college in the United States to offer undergraduate degrees to women in a coeducational program in 1841, and the first to adopt a policy allowing people of color to attend college in 1835. The beautiful, historic campus is a great place to explore for Women's History Month, with exhibits where you can learn more about the college's history of advocating for the rights of everyone to have an education, some of the best on-campus museums in Ohio, and plenty more to experience as you tour Oberlin College.

Upton House and Women's Suffrage Museum

380 Mahoning Ave. NW., Warren, OH 44483

Harriet Taylor Upton was an important figure in the Women's Suffrage movement in Ohio, and the Upton House has been preserved as a museum to share the story of her life. One room within the home has been converted into a Women's Suffrage museum, exploring the contribution made by local suffrage advocates, including Upton, Phebe Sutliffe, Elizabeth Hauser, and Zell Draz. Tour the museum with the help of one of the expert volunteers at the Upton House, or explore on your own.

First Ladies National Historic Site

205 Market Ave. S., Canton, OH 44702

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One of the only museums of its kind, the First Ladies National Historic Site tells the inspiring stories behind the women who have been First Lady throughout American history. Learn more about how the role of the First Lady has evolved and how First Ladies have found unique ways to make their own important historical contributions. In addition to the museum located in Canton, you can take a tour of the childhood home of Ida Saxton-McKinley right next door.

Ohio Statehouse Museum Ladies' Gallery

1 Capitol Square, Columbus, OH 43215

Ohio was one of the earliest states to ratify the 19th amendment, granting women the right to vote. A few years after the amendment was ratified, six women were elected to the Ohio General Assembly. The Ohio Statehouse Museum Ladies' Gallery explores the contributions made by those six women and the more than 150 women who have since served in the state legislature. This is one exhibit you won't want to miss when you tour the State Capitol.

Columbus Museum of Art

480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Throughout history, female artists have shaped culture, shared stories, advanced women's rights, and inspired millions through their artwork. The Columbus Museum of Art is a great place to explore the work of female artists throughout history and learn more about the contemporary artists still working to champion women's rights in the present day. Visit the museum to explore various exhibitions from women artists or attend one of many events that celebrate women's creativity. All Columbus Museum of Art tours during Women's History Month will also be themed around women artists.

National Annie Oakley Center at the Garst Museum

205 N. Broadway St., Greenville, OH 45331

Annie Oakley was a legendary sharpshooter, prolific performer, and beloved figure during her time. She achieved fame with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show and was one of America's first female superstars. But her personality goes far beyond those notable achievements, and the National Annie Oakley Center at the Garst Museum is dedicated to providing a comprehensive look at her fascinating life. The Garst Museum features more than 35,000 square feet of exhibit space and over 300,000 artifacts, many of which are housed in the National Annie Oakley Center.

Cincinnati Museum Center

1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203

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Many of the locations on our list are dedicated to specific women or groups of women who have made important contributions to our shared history, but what about all of the less famous women who have shaped Ohio history? The Cincinnati Museum Center is the perfect place to learn more about the many regular, everyday women who may not be famous but still made their mark by living, working, and advocating for women's rights in Ohio. Discover unique exhibits on the first all-female spacewalk, the fight for women's rights throughout history, and Cincinnati's inspiring female artists. 

Harriet Beecher Stowe House

2950 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206

A literary master with a complex legacy, Harriet Beecher Stowe was a fascinating figure who impacted American history. The Harriet Beecher Stowe House, located in Cincinnati, is dedicated to sustaining her legacy and educating future generations on her social impact. Visit the Harriet Beecher Stowe House to learn more about her legacy, participate in dialogue about social issues, and find inspiration for positive change.

Shaping Ohio History

What stories will you discover and share during Women's History Month this year?

With signs of habitation dating back to 13,000 BC, Ohio has a rich and colorful past. No matter what you learned in history books, it can't compare to seeing it with your own eyes. Whether it's a castle in Northeast Ohio, a covered bridge near Columbus, or a library in Cincinnati, a visit to these incredible sites will give you a new appreciation of our state.

Squire's Castle

North Chagrin Reservation, 2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094

If you're fascinated by the fictional royalty of Game of Thrones or real-life royalty of Queen Elizabeth and her family, don't miss Squire's Castle. Located at North Chagrin Reservation, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890s and patterned after German and English baronial castles. The gatehouse also serves as the trailhead for one of the North Chagrin's more scenic routes, and there's an adjacent picnic area that includes grills and seating. North Chagrin Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Maltz Performing Arts Center

Case Western Reserve University, 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

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The design and backstory of Maltz Performing Arts Center are as compelling as the events that take place inside it. Founded in 1850 as a temple for the local Reform Jewish congregation, the building has a unique heptagonal shape to fit the lot's odd configuration while approximating a circle, symbolizing unity. Thanks to the creative architecture and stunning interior, the building was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. A partnership between the Temple and Case Western Reserve University led to the creation of the Performing Arts Center, which hosts a number of concerts, lectures, and other cultural activities.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303

While many historical buildings bear the name of their original residents, that's not the case with Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term that translates to "stone quarry," which is a nod to the property's most prominent natural feature. The estate served as the home for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, but they also generously opened their doors to the public for frequent community events. Hours are 10 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for ages 6-17.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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Natural and man-made history combine to spectacular effect at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The 13-acre facility, located just two miles from downtown Columbus, is anchored by the John D. Wolfe Palm House. This glass greenhouse, which dates back to 1895, features 43 species of palms, including fiddle-leaf figs that were part of the original plantings. Seasonal and visiting exhibitions supplement the lush gardens and botanical biomes on permanent display. Franklin Park Conservatory is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.

Decorative Arts Center of Ohio

145 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130

Do you think of art as something that requires specialized skill or talent? The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio has a mission to awaken the creative spirit in everyone. Programming includes themed exhibits, classes, workshops, and lectures aimed at making art accessible to all. Welcome the new year with the upcoming exhibit, "Hindsight: The Art of Looking Back," which is particularly appropriate for exploring the past. "Classrooms" are located in the Reese-Peters House, a Federal/Greek Revival-style home built in 1835 and widely acclaimed as the finest house in Lancaster. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Mink Hollow Covered Bridge

Arney Run Park, 2340 Meister Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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Covered bridges, once a common sight around the countryside, have become rare but treasured relics of the past. Only about one in 10 have survived to the present day, with Mink Hollow Covered Bridge being one of the more picturesque structures. At a length of 54 feet, this charming "house bridge" boasts the longest official name of any bridge in the country: Mink Hollow over Arney Run in Oil Mill Hollow near the Borcher's Mill Covered Bridge. Dog-friendly Arney Run Park is also a great spot for hiking, photography, bird-watching, and picnicking. Park hours are dawn till dusk, 365 days a year. 

National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting

8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester, OH 45069

Before social media and television, news and entertainment were transmitted across radio waves. The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting highlights the development and impact of radio technology, both locally and globally. Cincinnati native Powel Crosley Jr., once dubbed "the Henry Ford of radio," was the driving force behind the Bethany Relay Station, which broadcasted from the building that now houses the museum. Other attractions include displays of early wireless transmitters and a fully-equipped ham station where you can observe the workings of shortwave radio. The museum is open weekends from 1 - 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for everyone aged 16 and older. 

The Mercantile Library

414 Walnut St. #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Established in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of only about two dozen membership libraries that still exist in the country. Spread across the 11th and 12th floors of the building, the library holds more than 80,000 volumes on subjects ranging from contemporary fiction and poetry to travel and history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Salman Rushdie, and Julia Child are just a few of the exciting guest lecturers who have appeared at the Mercantile. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.

Carillon Historical Park

1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409

Kitty Hawk may be the site of their first flights, but the dreams of the Wright Brothers first took hold in their hometown of Dayton. Carillon Historical Park shines a light on the Wright Brothers and other regional pioneers of transportation and industry. The 65-acre open-air museum includes displays such as the Wright Brothers National Museum, Great 1913 Flood Exhibit, and Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. Carillon Historical Park is open 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 3-17.

Yesterday Is History, Tomorrow Is a Mystery

What site in Ohio is associated with a significant memory from your own past?

Did you know that sunflowers are native to North America or that their flowers rotate throughout the day, so they are always facing the sun? There's no doubt about it; sunflowers are incredible. Luckily, there are several wonderful sunflower fields that you can visit in Ohio. Surrounding yourself with these bright, yellow flowers is sure to make you feel uplifted.

Ramseyer Farms

4000 Ramseyer Ln., Wooster, OH 44691

Ramseyer Farms is another great place to enjoy sunflowers in Northeast Ohio. They even have an annual sunflower festival each fall — a good opportunity to celebrate these magnificent flowers. The flowers here are well cared for and brilliantly colored.

In addition to the sunflower fields, Ramseyer Farms has all sorts of other fun activities. In the fall, there's a corn maze for all ages. You can pick your own potatoes, shop for farm produce and baked goods, or simply walk around and see the scarecrows. You can buy tickets or season passes online. They give you access to the sunflower field and other accompanying activities.

Prayers From Maria

Jaycox Rd., Avon, OH 44011

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If you're in Northeast Ohio, this is the perfect sunflower field to visit. It was founded in 2014 by Ed and Megan McNamara as a way of honoring their daughter, Maria after she lost her life to brain cancer. There is no charge to visit this sunflower field, but donations are requested, and proceeds go toward cancer research.

The Prayers From Maria Field of Hope is lined with benches, so there are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the view. Visitors love photographing themselves standing on the bridge or by the sign that reads "hope."

Rogish Farm

8637 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

Rogish Farm is a friendly, family-owned farm established in 2014. They have a large sunflower field, and they let customers visit and cut their own sunflowers. That's right — after admiring these beautiful flowers at the farm, you can take a couple home with you. Visitors do need to register in advance to attend.

Along with their sunflower fields, Rogish Farm also offers blueberry picking, and they have a shop where you can buy various cut and dried flowers, garlic, and other goodies.

Tecumseh Sunflower Field

4625 US-68, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

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The Tecumseh Sunflower Field is a part of the larger Tecumseh Land Trust, dedicated to preserving natural land and ecosystems in Ohio. Admission is free, but visitors are not permitted to cut the sunflowers. Parking can be a bit limited but tends to open up later in the evening.

There is a path that leads deep into the Tecumseh Sunflower Field, offering wonderful, 360-degree views. Many of the sunflowers reach more than 5 feet tall, so you may want to ask your friend for a piggyback ride so you can get a better view.

Van Buren Acres

5066 Keller Rd., Hebron, OH 43025

Van Buren Acres is just a short drive to the east of Columbus. This family-friendly farm opened in 2017, and it offers all sorts of fun activities, from pumpkin picking to corn mazes.  Their sunflower field is approximately 9 acres large, making it one of the biggest on this list.

You will need to pay admission to enter Van Buren Acres, but the cost of admission covers the sunflower fields and other activities. Watch the farm's Facebook page for an announcement when the sunflowers start blooming. They're only around for a few weeks.

22 Acres Farm

5455 Davis Dr. SE, Newark, OH 43056

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This farm offers a 5-acre sunflower field, and to make things even more interesting, they've planted 15 different varieties of sunflowers in the field. It's entertaining to stroll along and compare the different varieties. Pick a favorite, and see if your friends choose the same one.

22 Acre Farms' sunflower fields are only open through August 31, 2021, so make sure you schedule your visit soon. You can purchase tickets online. The cost is $10 per person, except on Tuesdays when there's a $5 per person deal. Hours are 8 am - 8 pm, Monday-Friday. Visit the website to learn about some special sunflower events, like Sunrise in the Sunflowers.

Dresbach Farms

2626 Higby Rd., Chillicothe, OH 45601

Located to the east of Cincinnati, Dresbach Farms is a busy farm with many different animals and crops. They have a sunflower field that guests can visit for a few dollars each. There's an extra fee if you want to clip some sunflowers to take with you. Typically, the sunflowers bloom in late August or early September.

While you're at Dresbach Farms, you may want to do some shopping at their farm market. They offer locally produced honey, cabbage, beef, tomatoes, eggs, whole chickens, and so much more.

Cottell Park

5847 Irwin Simpson Rd., Mason, OH 45040

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Cottell Park is a 47-acre public park in the town of Mason. Over the past few years, they have begun planting a sunflower field for guests to enjoy. The sunflowers here are not always as large as the ones seen on private farms, but they are gorgeous, nonetheless.

After walking through the sunflower field, you can spend some more time at Cottell Park enjoying the basketball courts, tennis courts, or soccer fields. There are also several shelters where you could enjoy a picnic lunch, along with playgrounds that are great for kids.

CherryHawk Farm

16220 Springdale Rd., Marysville, OH 43040

CherryHawk Farm is primarily an apple picking farm, but if you visit to pick apples, admission to the sunflower fields is included. The sunflower fields here are vast, and the flowers themselves represent an impressive variety. There are grass paths you can follow for a nice, complete view of the fields. 

Visitors can take one stem home for no additional charge. If you would like more than one sunflower, the farm charges $1 each. Guests are welcome to take photos in the sunflower fields, but professional photographers are asked to check in with the farm beforehand.

Everything's Coming Up Sunflowers

Which of these sunflower fields will brighten your day?

Food banks play an important role in communities throughout Ohio, providing food and support for those in need. Given the challenges of the past year, more people than ever before need support from local food banks. Whether you volunteer your time or make a donation, food banks across Ohio need support from the community to help as many people as possible. Even a small donation can make a big difference in the life of someone in need, so we've put together a guide to 8 Ohio food banks where you can show your support and make a positive difference in the community.

Greater Cleveland Food Bank

15500 S. Waterloo Rd., Cleveland, OH 44110

Northeast Ohio is home to a wide variety of food banks, including the large Greater Cleveland Food Bank, which serves more than 400,000 people per year. In addition to providing meals and fresh produce, the Greater Cleveland Food Bank works to help people in need sign up for programs that can help them find long-term solutions to food insecurity. There are many ways that you can get involved, by making a planned donation, monthly donation, or contribution of non-perishable food items. There are also volunteer opportunities available in a wide variety of positions, from loading/unloading food to using specialized skills to help with large administrative projects within the food bank.

Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank

350 Opportunity Pkwy., Akron, OH 44307

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The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank has been serving eight counties around both cities for nearly 40 years by storing and distributing food to a large group of smaller food pantries in the area. With 83,000 square feet of warehouse space and 8,000 square feet of freezer space, the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank can serve more than 500 food pantries, shelters, and other non-profit organizations in the region. This foodbank is always accepting donations of food and funds, so it's easy to give back in a way that works for you. You can also volunteer in various support roles at the warehouse or help with food distribution in local communities.

Second Harvest Food Bank

5510 Baumhart Rd., Lorain, OH 44053

In its more than 35 years of serving Northeast Ohio communities, the Second Harvest Food Bank has distributed nearly 100 million pounds of food to those in need. The food bank distributes food to an organized network of food pantries and charity organizations throughout Northeast Ohio. Thanks to a new facility built in Lorain, Second Harvest Food Bank has tripled its capacity for food storage. You can help distribute all of that extra food or make a donation to ensure that the warehouse shelves are always stocked. The organization also needs volunteers to help package food backpacks, along with packages for senior centers and mobile food pantries.

NNEMAP Food Pantry

667 E. 11th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211

NNEMAP Food Pantry is part of a coordinated network of food pantries in Columbus and beyond. While many food pantries distribute food based on ZIP codes, NNEMAP Food Pantry makes its services available to anyone who lives in Columbus regardless of where in the city they're located. Volunteers here help with food insecurity, hygiene products, food stamp access, and healthcare needs. You can make a difference as a delivery driver, client interviewer, inventory assistant, or a fundraiser. NNEMAP also accepts help from volunteer groups, if your friends, colleagues, or family would like to help contribute to a positive cause.

Worthington Resource Pantry

6700 Huntley Rd., Columbus, OH 43229

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Based in Columbus, the Worthington Resource Pantry serves southern Delaware and northern Franklin counties. In addition to nutritious food, the Worthington Resource Pantry also distributes many essential personal care items to those in need. With a small leadership team and a large, dedicated group of volunteers, this food bank is able to reach more people every year. You can volunteer to help sort and package food, in order to make the distribution process as smooth as possible. The Worthington Resource Pantry also welcomes donations of food, funds, and personal care items.

Mid-Ohio Foodbank On-Site Pantry

3960 Brookham Dr., Grove City, OH 43123

The Mid-Ohio Foodbank On-Site Pantry is part of the larger Mid-Ohio Foodbank network, serving local communities in various ways for more than 40 years. The network is one of the largest of its kind in Ohio and reaches communities throughout the state through more than 680 partner organizations in addition to its own food pantry. With such a large network, there are many ways that you can get involved. Your donations of non-perishable food or funds are always welcome, with every donation playing a small part in distributing more than 140,000 meals every day. There are also many volunteer opportunities available, both at the On-Site Pantry and at other Mid-Ohio Foodbank locations around the state.

Freestore Foodbank

1141 Central Pkwy., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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The Freestore Foodbank has a variety of locations around the Cincinnati area, including its main location on Central Parkway. This large food bank is part of the Feeding America network, with a variety of unique ways to contribute in addition to volunteering or donating directly. You can arrange a virtual food drive to raise money online, or participate in events like the Virtual Hunger Walk to help raise money for a diverse collection of local organizations which are working to address food insecurity around Cincinnati.

SEM Food Pantry

2020 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230

The SEM Food Pantry provides support for those in need who are located in eastern Hamilton County and Clermont County, while establishing partnerships with other local organizations including the Freestore Foodbank. SEM Food Pantry operates a client-choice food pantry, which allows members to select their food as if they were at the store. You can volunteer to help by answering phones, helping clients choose food, stocking shelves, and collecting donations. If you aren't able to volunteer, donations of food and funds are crucial in helping SEM Food Pantry serve the community.

Lending a Hand

Every little bit adds up, so how will you show your love to organizations that work every day to make a difference in the lives of those in need?