Groceries give hope

SANDUSKY — There are several ways in which OHgo — a local nonprofit serving as the area's leading organization in feeding underserved population segments — helps community members in need. This would include supplying nutritious food, at no cost, through various events. Quite often, upward of 400 families gather at parks and other public places for these events "Our mission is to meet people where they are," said Kendra Faulkner, OHgo's co-founder and executive director."We want to show up in neighborhoods and build relationships while helping families access the food they need." Here are just some of those ways. People can visit ohgoreach.org and/or the nonprofit's Facebook page, facebook.com/ohgoreach, for updates. Pop-up pantry The pop-up pantry occurs from 4-5 p.m. on the fifth Thursday of every month, granted the month has five Thursdays, at Foxborough Park, 2032 Fox Run Trail. Fresh produce, bread, frozen meat and shelf-stable groceries are all offered by the pantry — free of charge and open to anyone in need. This pop-up pantry represents just one of many ways in which OHgo provides nutritious food to community members. Mobile pantry The pop-up pantry complements OHgo's overall initiative in feeding underserved population segments. The mobile food pantry occurs on the first and third Thursdays of every month: Sandusky-area stops include: •4-4:40 p.m. at MacArthur Park off West Perkins Avenue • 4:50-5:30 p.m. at New Jerusalem Church on Shelby Street • 5:50-6:30 p.m. at Orlando Pace Park on Wamajo Drive Groceries include non-perishables, dairy items, produce, breads, pastries and frozen meats. People, both those living in these neighborhoods and outside of them, are welcome to attend. Fresh produce giveaways OHgo also hosts fresh produce giveaways every Monday, Wednesday and Friday except on holidays. Food is distributed shortly after the truck arrives, typically from 9:45-10:15 a.m., and will continue while supplies last at the nonprofit's headquarters. 2304 E. Perkins Ave., Sandusky These are on a first-come, first-served basis and open to all, rain or shine. This would include a pantry event often occurring at Erie County Job and Family Services, 221 W. Parish St. Furthermore, OHgo works with area senior citizen facilities and related resources to provide boxes of food for the older population. Playing a pivotal role For these events and more, volunteers play a pivotal role, Faulkner said. The organization always seeks more people to help fulfill its mission. "It's not just about food: It's about connection," Faulkner said. "We're here to build relationships and bring support directly to the people who need it most." OHgo relies, in part, on donations to carry out its mission. People can make financial contributions by visiting ohgoreach.org or mailing a check: send to 3616 Plumbrook Circle, Sandusky, OH 44870 Every donation helps OHgo continue to bring dignity, joy and support to families across the area, Faulkner said. Join the fight against hunger In preparation for OHgo's annual Empty Bowls event — scheduled for 4:30-7:30 p.m. on Oct. 6 at The Winerie, 6413 Hayes Ave. (Ohio 4), Sandusky — nonprofit officials welcome people to attend. Here's how it works with statements provided by OHgo: • "Come help us fight hunger in Erie County. Each ticket includes a hand-painted bowl, soups and chilis, wine, desserts and live entertainment. " • "Upon arrival, guests may choose a keepsake from over 300 hand-thrown and painted bowls. Then help yourself to as much soup, chili and desserts — prepared by some of the best local restaurants and chefs — enjoy wine and live music." • "Tickets include all of this as well as raffles and more fun throughout the beautiful venue, The Winerie, inside and out." "Every ticket donation feeds local families through OHgo's mobile food pantry and fresh markets." People can visit either the nonprofit's website and/or Facebook page for ticket information.