Tornado Victims Find Help at Open Door

The Ohio Benefit Bank hosted an Expo for those who work in Fulton County within the social services realm. Expos are a chance for social workers, medical professionals, church personnel and others to learn about becoming Benefit Bank sites. Gayle Loyola, regional coordinator for the area had a variety of folks attend and was eager to share information about the OBB Express as well.

Sixty-Eight (68) families in Fulton County were effected by the tornado that swept through on Saturday, June 5, 2010. Many had homes that were completely destroyed, while others had extensive damage. Seven people in Wood County died in this whirlwind.

Open Door of Delta is providing support to victims by helping them set up temporary households and giving gifts of clothing, food, furniture and small appliances. These items have been donated by caring neighbors from all over Ohio--with a true "neighbors helping neighbors" spirit.

Executive Director, Cherie Mercer greeted the OBB Mobile Express explaining that many of the victims did not have insurance and find themselves in need of supports that they never imagined needing.

She reported in The Delta newspaper:

"I feel supportive services will be needed for months to come, and The Open Door is committed to providing anything at our disposal for the families. We want the families to know they are not forgotten." Cherie Mercer

Cherie was a gracious host and was excited to have the Ohio Benefit Bank present. She shared that her organization has been self sufficient through sales of the thrift store and has hopes that The Open Door will provide work supports and supportive housing in the future as well as continuing to provide material assistance.

Here is a picture of a wedding dress that was found in a tree

and returned to the owner through the Open Door.

This meal was purchased at the TA Truck Stop during our travels to Delta, Ohio. The potato was gargantuan! The picture here does not do it justice. To Russell's credit he did his best to consume the monster. I have honestly not ever seen a potato so large. Speaking of potatoes, stay tuned for my next post devoted to Mid Ohio Food Bank and their potato bounty.