MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Marion Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business Before Hours event took on a focus on youth nutrition and community needs Wednesday, featuring a discussion led by Aspire Ministry.
The event began with an interactive exercise led by Jenni, where participants received brown paper bags containing real accounts of local 5th-grade and middle school students’ typical breakfasts. Responses ranged from full meals like breakfast sandwiches and hot chocolate to a single drink of apple juice or nothing at all, highlighting varying levels of food security among local students.
Katie from Aspire Ministry then discussed the organization’s work and the range of assistance they provide, including help with housing, utility bills, diapers, incontinence products, and furniture, in addition to addressing food insecurity.
“Aspire doesn’t just offer a quick fix,” Katie said. “We work to uncover the root causes of an individual’s struggles and provide long-term support to help them move forward, rather than further into crisis.”
Aspire partners with local churches and volunteers who serve as advocates, connecting individuals and families with resources.
The event served as a reminder of community challenges and the work being done to address them. The Marion Area Chamber of Commerce thanked Aspire Ministry for the discussion and their service to Marion residents.