In a remarkable display of community spirit, the residents of Richland County, along with local agencies, businesses, and labor unions, came together to support a vital cause – restocking the shelves of two local food banks. The 21st annual Make A Difference Day drive, held on Friday, saw an outpouring of donations, both in the form of non-perishable food items, hygiene products, and monetary gifts, all aimed at ensuring those in need within the community were provided for.

Feeding the Hungry, Uplifting the Community

Generous Donations Flood In

The response from the community was overwhelming, with checks totaling $1,275 donated to the Catholic Charities Hope Food Pantry, along with a $50 cash donation. Additionally, $1,285 was donated in checks to WayFinders, formerly known as the Harmony House homeless shelter. Chelley Kemper, a Mansfield radio personality from 106.1 FM, played a crucial role in promoting the food drive and helping to coordinate the efforts.

Community Members Step Up

The generosity of the Richland County community was on full display as residents began dropping off their donations as early as 7 a.m. outside the Dan Lew Exchange restaurant in downtown Mansfield. Norm Shoemaker, the president of the Mid-Ohio Area CLC, revealed that local unions had contributed to the cause, with the United Food and Commercial Workers representatives using the funds to purchase food for the pantries. The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees also lent a hand in delivering the donated items on Friday.

A Heartwarming Moment

Despite the absence of the event's co-founder, Doc Stumbo, due to health concerns, the spirit of the occasion was not dampened. When a double rainbow appeared in the sky to the west of the downtown eatery, the participants at the food drive enthusiastically shouted, "Doc's here," a touching tribute to the individual who had played a pivotal role in organizing the annual event.

A Nationwide Initiative with Local Impact

Make a Difference Day, created by USA Weekend magazine in 1992, is a nationwide initiative that encourages community support and volunteerism across the country. The event is officially co-sponsored by Points of Light, a nonprofit founded by former U.S. President George H. W. Bush. In Richland County, the food drive has become a cherished tradition, with local news media and trade unions working alongside Stumbo to ensure its continued success.

Addressing Ongoing Needs

Stumbo, the co-founder of the food drive, had previously emphasized the ongoing need for non-perishable food, toiletries, and paper products at the local food banks. The community's response to this call for assistance has been a testament to the resilience and compassion of the Richland County residents, who have once again demonstrated their commitment to supporting those in need within their community.The 21st annual Make A Difference Day drive in Richland County has once again proven that when a community comes together, remarkable things can be achieved. The outpouring of donations, both tangible and financial, has not only restocked the shelves of the local food banks but has also served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that collective action can have on those facing hardship. As the Richland County community continues to rally around this important cause, the future holds the promise of even greater acts of kindness and support for those in need.