ONTARIO, Ohio – Catholic Charities and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office partnered in hosting the fifth annual Consumer Resource Fair on Saturday, March 7 at the Richland Mall.
A variety of organizations were at the Richland Mall where each displayed avalable information. Among those represented were North End Community Improvement Collaborative (NECIC), Ohio Treasurer’s Office, Mechanics Bank, Citizens Bank, Apprisen, Area Agency on Aging, Job and Family Services, American Red Cross and more.
“It’s all about getting free information out to consumers to make better financial decisions every day,” said Crisis Navigator for Catholic Charities Kristen Burton.
Burton said the most interesting part of the event was connecting the local businesses and nonprofits.
“That’s the most interesting thing to me about today. There’s a partnership between all the entities to where they have the chance to reach out to consumers together,” said Burton.
Each business or non-profit group made use of a table clad with information packets, brochures and fliers. And each table had a representative.
Mansfield/Richland County Public Library Outreach Department Manager Deborah Dubois said her reason for being at the Consumer Resource Fair was to connect with someone. Dubois was manning the library’s and First Call 211‘s table.
“These events bring all our information together for people. If we’re not sure about a certain answer to a question, we’ll find the information. They’re not alone, there are places to go for help,” said Dubois.
The willingness to help was a theme at the Consumer Resource Fair.
Directions Credit Union set up a virtual store at the event called Finances 101, which is designed to help attendees learn how to handle everyday financial situations.
Social Service Worker for Richland County Job & Family Services Karen Kepple was there to give information, but also to help those in need. She works with adults aged 60 and over to find aid in abusive situations.
“Some haven’t seen anyone in ages. If I can help even just one elder today that needs help, I’ll be happy,” said Kepple.
“So many don’t have that interaction with people and they become very lonely to the point they gravitate to anyone who gives them attention. And that’s when unfortunately abuse happens,” she added.
Chairperson Clarence Baughman of Blue Rose Mission felt a moral obligation to represent the organization at the event. “It’s what Christ would want us to do,” said Baughman. Blue Rose Mission is devoted to “bringing Jesus Christ to homeowners through home repairs.”
Iformation was abundant at the Consumer Resource Fair. For more information on any one of those listed, visit their websites.
“It’s all about getting free information out to consumers to make better financial decisions every day,” said Crisis Navigator for Catholic Charities Kristen Burton.
