COLUMBUS (March 15, 2020) — COLUMBUS (March 15, 2020) — The
Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies
(OACAA) commends Governor Mike DeWine for his swift action and efforts to reduce the spread of the coronavirus and save Ohioans’ lives. The Community Action Network has always been quick in our response to emerging community needs, and the network is prepared and working with the administration to care for our most vulnerable neighbors.
Low-income Ohioans will be especially impacted by the new restrictions across the state. The loss of income with closings of businesses, along with the increased care needs for children out of school, will make already constrained budgets even more restricted. In our effort to quickly respond and bridge the gaps, OACAA purchased 18,000 shelf-stable meals to distribute across the State beginning today.
“The distribution of these meals by local Community Action Agencies will feed children, parents and caregivers on weekends and evenings, as well as senior citizens during the next several days,” said Philip E. Cole, executive director of OACAA. “Our members are poised and ready to help where communities need it most.”
Community Action Agencies across the state have also begun developing and deploying additional services, and working with partners to expand opportunities for low-income households throughout Ohio.
Pickaway County Community Action Organization
, for example, will be providing transportation to and from school lunch distribution sites for children who lack the means to get there.
"Whether it be a natural disaster like the tornadoes in Dayton last year or the coronavirus pandemic we're currently facing, the creative solutions and quick action of our members are vital to community recovery,” said Cole. “I am proud that our network is both dependable and up for the challenges ahead. We are open to serve low-income people in Ohio."
Forty-seven Community Action Agencies in Ohio serve all 88 counties. Each agency offers different programs based on the community's needs. To contact your local agency and find out how they can help,
visit our website
or see this
current contact list
.
