The Ohio Benefit Bank Mobile Express Has Launched!

The Ohio Benefit Bank is an Internet-based, counselor-assisted program that helps low and moderate income individuals and families file for state and federal tax credits and other work support programs. The Benefit Bank is at over 850 sites across Ohio, helping us link Ohioans to over $100 million in benefits and federal tax supports. But even with more than 850 sites and over 3,500 trained counselors the need to reach Ohioans where they live, work, play, and pray is increasing.

Thanks to the generosity of the Columbus Foundation, the Ohio Benefit Bank was able to set up their first ever mobile enrollment unit. This Sprinter van - which features two offices and a fully functional satellite dish for Internet access - will be able to reach Ohioans who may not be aware or are unable to reach local Benefit Bank sites. With this mobile enrollment unit at our disposal, we will help thousands of Ohioans file their taxes, register to vote, and painlessly apply for programs that can help them put food on the table, keep their home warm, their health care affordable, and stabilize their household budgets.

It will be the pleasure of the Mobile Enrollment Specialists, Erin Sprouse and L. Russell Allen, to keep readers up to date on the work we're accomplishing. We hope to document where we're going, who we're helping, and what we're planning for the future.

Thanks for your time and we hope to see you on the road!

~L. Russell Allen