Looking for Comfort, Comradery or Assistance this Holiday Season?
- dmichaels54
- Nov 15, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 19, 2024
The holidays can be a time of hope and celebration. It can also be a difficult time. If you need help or just some ideas for holiday activities, the staff at GCBHS has pulled together multiple resources that might come in handy for those experiencing a crisis or wanting a place to go.
We will continue to update this list throughout the holidays. If you have a suggestion for a resource please email info@gcbhs.com
If you are having a mental health crisis please call or text 9-8-8. It is an anonymous, free service available 24/7 to connect you to a trained professional who can get you to the help you need.
GENERAL NEEDS (food pantries, coats, behavioral health needs, utility assistance, etc.)
Remember that in some cases you must be a resident of the specific community and ID may be required. Please click on the > for additional information.
Here is a list of food distribution sites which is being updated by Freestore Foodbank. The list runs from November till the new year.
The Community Action Agency's Utility Assistance & Mobile Pantries
If you need information on The Community Action Agency's Utility Assistance, CLICK HERE. For Mobile Food Pantry programs, CLICK HERE.
St. Vincent de Paul's Coat Distribution program for Hamilton County residents
St. Vincent de Paul's Coat Distribution Program is open to Hamilton County residents. Here's a link to more information.
The Neyer Center Outreach Center may be able to help with rent, utilities, furniture and clothing.
The Neyer Outreach Center is part of St. Vincent DePaul and may also be able to help with financial assistance with rent and utilities, furniture, and clothing depending on qualifications. Learn more HERE.
HealthSource Resource Map
HealthSource has a Resource Map to assist people throughout the region, on services such as transportation and housing, as well as food pantries and other basic needs.
The United Way 2-1-1 Line for non-emergency assistance
Available to assist with basic needs, housing assistance, mental health services, utility bills and employment services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
DIAL 211 to speak to a trained professional who can connect you to essential community services. Serving Adams, Brown, Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Hamilton and Warren Counties in Ohio; Boone, Campbell, Grant and Kenton counties in Kentucky. Or go online: 211uwgc.org
ReLink is another resource to to help get you connected with services. Check out their website HERE.
Shared Harvest Foodbank Friday Onsite Distribution
12/6, 13, 20, and 27 - More dates available on their FB page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1225228428765287/1225228472098616/
5901 Dixie Highway, Fairfield 45014
Pre-registration required; call the Help Center to register 513-881-9024 in advance on the Monday prior to the event. Please note: you are welcome to register for every other Friday. Food options may vary. We encourage you to still visit your local food pantry for more food options. https://www.sharedharvest.org/find-a-pantry-near-you
Please bring your photo ID and a current piece of mail.
Drive-Thru Distribution, no need to exit your vehicle.
Shelterhouse Winter Shelter is OPEN!
The Winter Shelter at Shelterhouse (411 Gest St.) will open every night this winter at 7PM. Anyone who would otherwise be sleeping outdoors, in a car, an abandoned building or anywhere not meant for humans is welcome and encouraged to go. Winter Shelter is a separate shelter from their standard shelter.
For additional resources including free Metro ride information go to: https://cincinnati.unitedresourceconnection.org/
COMMUNITY MEALS
12/24 Christmas Eve meal at Good Plates Eatery
For the second year, Santa will be making a stop: the eatery is hosting a toy drive as part of the dinner distribution. You can bring any new or gently used toy to its location in Clifton Heights to include in the drive. The eatery is also collecting coats and winter wear to distribute to the community. Doors open on Christmas Eve at 11:30 a.m. and will be distributed while supplies last. Guests can take as many meals as they need.
Anyone who wants to help fund the dinners can Venmo @goodplateseatery or drop off a check at 235 W. McMillan Street. All money goes back to preparing the dinners.
FOR THOSE SEEKING RECOVERY & SUPPORT
12/23 - 2024 Alcathon at River of Life Church
The 33rd annual Alcathon takes place at River of Life Church, 2000 Central Parkway 45214. The event starts at 11:30 pm 12/23 and runs through 8:00 pm 12/26. For information email: Alcathon@aacincinnati.com
LOW COST OR FREE ACTIVITIES
Downtown Dazzle - Saturdays beginning 11/30 through 12/21 from 6:00- 8:00 pm
Fountain Square is the place to be for one of the biggest highlights of the holiday season. See Santa rappel from a Cincinnati skyrise and wait with anticipation for the sky to fill with a fabulous fireworks display! More info is available at: https://www.facebook.com/events/304543642753570/304543649420236/
