OHgo here to help

Editor's note: Christine Boesch serves as the co-founder of OHgo, a leading organization in feeding underserved and lesser-fortunate locals throughout Erie County. As a federally funded food assistance program is just days away from being cut off, she underscored her nonprofit's mission and drive to continue serving people. SANDUSKY — OHgo has experienced record demand in recent years. While we've always worked hard to fill the gaps in aid, stepping in to meet the full scope of need is new territory. For many, OHgo — and other local food pantries — will become the primary source of support, once SNAP, shortened from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, benefits pause. We've strengthened our fundraising efforts and expanded our capacity to store and distribute more food than ever before. Still, we recognize that our impact depends on the continued support of our generous donors and community partners, to whom we are forever grateful. As I write this, so many faces come to mind: • A hardworking mother who misses shifts to care for her children with special needs, struggling to make ends meet • An elderly friend living with chronic health conditions, unable to afford the nutritious foods that help manage his blood sugar and blood pressure • A kind woman recovering from surgery, unable to return to work until December For many, even those in working families, once the bills are paid, there's simply nothing left for food. I think most about how this added stress affects the mood within households. Nothing weighs heavier on a parent's heart than the fear of not being able to feed their children. At OHgo, we've always made it our mission to be a trusted and caring source of support. When someone runs short, our community knows they can turn to us and receive the help they need. We've been blessed to meet those needs in the past, and we're committed to continuing to show up — no matter what lies ahead. How to help? As we brace for the impact, here are a few ways you can help: • Donate funds; We can stretch financial contributions further than individual grocery purchases. Visit ohgoreach.org to donate. • Volunteer your time; Help pack and distribute food to neighbors in need. Text the word "OHGO" to 419-405-0808. • Provide hard-to-access essentials; Items like baby formula, diapers, socks, gloves, hats and hygiene products are always needed. • Check in on your neighbors; Sometimes, a kind word or simple act of care can make all the difference. We are also here to continue helping people during this grave time. OHgo will still supply nutritious food, at no cost, through various events, including at our pop-up and mobile pantries as well as with our fresh produce giveaways. People can visit facebook.com/ohgoreach for a full schedule and updates.