Food for All Mobile Pantry to Serve West Union Residents This Week

The Food for All Mobile Pantry will operate at the Adams County Fairgrounds, 836 Boyd Avenue in West Union, on Tuesday, November 25. Distribution hours are scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., or while supplies last, according to organizers. The program follows the federal emergency food guidelines under the Emergency Food Assistance Program, limiting assistance to households with income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Recipients are asked to bring a photo identification and a recent piece of mail showing current address.

The distribution is organized by Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio through its Food for All program in partnership with local churches, the Free Store Foodbank, and community volunteers. Local program coordinator April Hoak and area organizers are handling outreach and volunteer coordination, and people seeking more information or wishing to volunteer are encouraged to contact program staff through those local channels.

Mobile pantries such as this one play an important role in rural counties like Adams where food insecurity is persistent and transportation can be a barrier to access. For many residents, a short drive to the fairgrounds may be the most practical way to secure a supply of groceries before the holiday week. The reliance on community volunteers and faith based partners also demonstrates how nonprofit capacity fills gaps left by limited public investments in rural food systems.

At the same time, the event underscores structural challenges. Eligibility tied to federal poverty guidelines leaves out households that struggle but slightly exceed the income cutoff. Identification and proof of address requirements can be an obstacle for elderly residents, people who are unhoused, or those who work irregular jobs and receive mail at alternate addresses. The mid day distribution window, while convenient for some, may be difficult for working families who cannot easily leave jobs to attend.

Public health implications are broad. Reliable access to nutritious food supports chronic disease management, mental health, and overall resilience during a period of heightened need. Temporary distributions ease immediate pressures but do not replace sustained policy solutions such as expanded nutrition benefits, improved public transportation, and investment in local food infrastructure.

Adams County residents who plan to attend should prepare the required documentation and arrive early since supplies will be limited. The event also offers an entry point for residents and local leaders to discuss longer term approaches to food security, including stronger coordination between emergency food providers, health services, and county social programs to reduce recurring need and ensure equitable access.