An Evergreen Mission: Our Year-Round Commitment to Ashland County
After Punxsutawney Phil emerges from his groundhog hole every February 2nd to look for his shadow, his work for the year is done.
To the casual observer, the Associated Charities of Ashland County might appear to work similarly. We function in full force at Thanksgiving and Christmas—and then what? Do we disappear for the next ten months?
Alas, there are no underachieving groundhogs in our ranks.
No, our work may be most visible during the holidays, but our mission is evergreen. It continues year-round, thanks to the passion of our people, who are dedicated to serving the residents of Ashland County all year long.
So what do we do besides lending a helping hand during the holidays?
A lot, actually—and we’ve been doing it since we opened our doors in 1910. Let us count the ways.
The Ashland County Food Bank
First, our mission is a year-round one because there are always people in Ashland County who lack food. Through the Ashland County Food Bank, we offer short-term assistance to relieve the hunger in our region.
When times are tough, people need food on their tables more than ever. Over 40 churches, businesses, organizations, and individuals in the region donate to supply us with the food we offer our visitors. It is our privilege to fill their bellies and give them hope.
And yes, you read that right—we offer more than food. Our compassionate volunteers also offer visitors listening ears and information about other resources that might benefit them.
Clothing Our People
When the holidays roll in, so does the relentless chill of winter—and it lingers months after we celebrate the arrival of the New Year.
We collect clothing and coats to combat the cold and ensure that those in need in our county are comfortable when nature is at its most unforgiving.
Sheltering Our People
When jobs falter and savings accounts dry up, those who call our county home struggle to pay for rent and utilities.
As residents receive eviction or disconnection notices, they ask us for help—and we are honored to meet them in their need. We offer rent and utilities assistance to prevent them from losing their homes and to help them keep the lights on.
Keeping Our People Healthy
Of course, offering relief in the form of food, clothing, and shelter is not sufficient for those living in our county who rely on costly medications to manage illnesses.
These people need their prescriptions to stay comfortable—perhaps even to stay alive—and we are here to offer medication assistance.
If You Need Help/If You Want to Help
If you’re wondering if you or someone you know qualifies for any of these forms of assistance, please visit our site and read about eligibility. We do everything possible to ensure a fair and transparent assistance process for all who come to us for help.
If you’re in a position to help us assist the residents of Ashland County throughout the year, donating is as easy as clicking a button here.
While we receive 56% of our resources from United Way funds, we rely on generous people like you to meet the rest of our operating needs. We thank you in advance for your help—and Ashland County thanks you, too!
Whether you read this as someone living with great need or as one who longs to offer great generosity, we invite you to reach out to us today. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more resilient community—and not just during the holidays, but all year round.