
Food banks play an important role in communities throughout Ohio, providing food and support for those in need. Given the challenges of the past year, more people than ever before need support from local food banks. Whether you volunteer your time or make a donation, food banks across Ohio need support from the community to help as many people as possible. Even a small donation can make a big difference in the life of someone in need, so we've put together a guide to 8 Ohio food banks where you can show your support and make a positive difference in the community.
15500 S. Waterloo Rd., Cleveland, OH 44110
Northeast Ohio is home to a wide variety of food banks, including the large Greater Cleveland Food Bank, which serves more than 400,000 people per year. In addition to providing meals and fresh produce, the Greater Cleveland Food Bank works to help people in need sign up for programs that can help them find long-term solutions to food insecurity. There are many ways that you can get involved, by making a planned donation, monthly donation, or contribution of non-perishable food items. There are also volunteer opportunities available in a wide variety of positions, from loading/unloading food to using specialized skills to help with large administrative projects within the food bank.
350 Opportunity Pkwy., Akron, OH 44307
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The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank has been serving eight counties around both cities for nearly 40 years by storing and distributing food to a large group of smaller food pantries in the area. With 83,000 square feet of warehouse space and 8,000 square feet of freezer space, the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank can serve more than 500 food pantries, shelters, and other non-profit organizations in the region. This foodbank is always accepting donations of food and funds, so it's easy to give back in a way that works for you. You can also volunteer in various support roles at the warehouse or help with food distribution in local communities.
5510 Baumhart Rd., Lorain, OH 44053
In its more than 35 years of serving Northeast Ohio communities, the Second Harvest Food Bank has distributed nearly 100 million pounds of food to those in need. The food bank distributes food to an organized network of food pantries and charity organizations throughout Northeast Ohio. Thanks to a new facility built in Lorain, Second Harvest Food Bank has tripled its capacity for food storage. You can help distribute all of that extra food or make a donation to ensure that the warehouse shelves are always stocked. The organization also needs volunteers to help package food backpacks, along with packages for senior centers and mobile food pantries.
667 E. 11th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211
NNEMAP Food Pantry is part of a coordinated network of food pantries in Columbus and beyond. While many food pantries distribute food based on ZIP codes, NNEMAP Food Pantry makes its services available to anyone who lives in Columbus regardless of where in the city they're located. Volunteers here help with food insecurity, hygiene products, food stamp access, and healthcare needs. You can make a difference as a delivery driver, client interviewer, inventory assistant, or a fundraiser. NNEMAP also accepts help from volunteer groups, if your friends, colleagues, or family would like to help contribute to a positive cause.
6700 Huntley Rd., Columbus, OH 43229
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Based in Columbus, the Worthington Resource Pantry serves southern Delaware and northern Franklin counties. In addition to nutritious food, the Worthington Resource Pantry also distributes many essential personal care items to those in need. With a small leadership team and a large, dedicated group of volunteers, this food bank is able to reach more people every year. You can volunteer to help sort and package food, in order to make the distribution process as smooth as possible. The Worthington Resource Pantry also welcomes donations of food, funds, and personal care items.
3960 Brookham Dr., Grove City, OH 43123
The Mid-Ohio Foodbank On-Site Pantry is part of the larger Mid-Ohio Foodbank network, serving local communities in various ways for more than 40 years. The network is one of the largest of its kind in Ohio and reaches communities throughout the state through more than 680 partner organizations in addition to its own food pantry. With such a large network, there are many ways that you can get involved. Your donations of non-perishable food or funds are always welcome, with every donation playing a small part in distributing more than 140,000 meals every day. There are also many volunteer opportunities available, both at the On-Site Pantry and at other Mid-Ohio Foodbank locations around the state.
1141 Central Pkwy., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The Freestore Foodbank has a variety of locations around the Cincinnati area, including its main location on Central Parkway. This large food bank is part of the Feeding America network, with a variety of unique ways to contribute in addition to volunteering or donating directly. You can arrange a virtual food drive to raise money online, or participate in events like the Virtual Hunger Walk to help raise money for a diverse collection of local organizations which are working to address food insecurity around Cincinnati.
2020 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
The SEM Food Pantry provides support for those in need who are located in eastern Hamilton County and Clermont County, while establishing partnerships with other local organizations including the Freestore Foodbank. SEM Food Pantry operates a client-choice food pantry, which allows members to select their food as if they were at the store. You can volunteer to help by answering phones, helping clients choose food, stocking shelves, and collecting donations. If you aren't able to volunteer, donations of food and funds are crucial in helping SEM Food Pantry serve the community.
Every little bit adds up, so how will you show your love to organizations that work every day to make a difference in the lives of those in need?

Need a pick-me-up to get you through the dog days of summer? The time is right for July's selection of fun freebies, brought to you courtesy of Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati are home to some incredible local businesses. Our agents at Cutler Real Estate have partnered with LoLo Gifts to help you discover these shops and restaurants with a monthly series of enticing special offers.
1562 Akron Peninsula Rd., #120, Akron, OH 44313
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You're never too old to follow Mom's advice about eating a healthy breakfast. Jumpstart your day with $10 toward an omelet, crepe, or pancakes at Michael's A.M.
For more than 35 years, busy Akronites have been heading to Michael's A.M. for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Their scratch-made food with locally sourced ingredients has a number of readers' and viewers' choice awards from local media. With a wide range of hearty meals and a la carte offerings, Michael's A.M. accommodates any appetite and taste.
330.929.3447
Monday - Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
4866 Everhard Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
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Whether you're a traditional purist or adventurous foodie, popcorn is the snack that puts a smile on everyone's face. Head to Nom Nom Popcorn Company to satisfy that crunchy craving.
Founded in 2015, Nom Nom Popcorn Company is named for the distinctive chewing sound made by enthusiastic customers. All popcorn, whether plain or flavored, is made with fresh butter, real cheese, and other top-quality ingredients. Go classic with kettle or movie butter, or find a new favorite from unique flavors such as beer cheese soup, birthday cake, or peanut butter s'mores.
330.705.2560
Monday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 6 p.m.
223 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
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Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or a new accessory to brighten up your home? You'll have a hard time settling on just one choice with your $10 certificate toward the delightful products at The Red Stable.
Located in historic German Village, The Red Stable was indeed a horse livery when it was built in 1872. Nearly 150 years later, the vividly colored building now serves as a gift shop featuring original products from more than 100 local artisans. Be sure to check out the second-floor art gallery, where prints of German Village, Columbus, and Oho are on display.
614.867.5300
Monday - Saturday Noon - 8 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 7 p.m.
201 S. Court St., Medina, OH 44256
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Nothing like a creamy, refreshing treat to cool down on a hot summer day in Ohio. You can't go wrong using your $10 certificate toward any of the luscious flavors found at Lemonberry Frozen Yogurt.
"Have it your way" isn't just for burgers. Lemonberry Frozen Yogurt lets you choose your own flavors and toppings, so you can make your order as decadent or as healthy as you like. Following a specific diet? Don't feel left out. Lemonberry offers non- and low-fat, dairy-free, sugar-free, vegan, and gluten-free options.
330.721.0793
Monday - Saturday Noon - 10 p.m.
135 E. Erie St., Kent, OH 44240
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If it's a quick breakfast or comforting midday snack you're after, a latte and a cookie fits the bill. Stop by Tree City Coffee & Pastry for their "stay-put atmosphere and drive-thru convenience."
As denoted by the use of Kent's popular nickname, Tree City Coffee & Pastry focuses on serving as a gathering spot for local residents and university students. The cafe regularly gives back through charitable donations to schools and service members. Tree City's high-quality coffee is organic and ethically sourced, while all desserts and pastries are baked in-house every morning.
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
140 S. Walnut St., Wooster, OH 44691
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The name may be a tongue-twister, but Boo Bear's Brew serves "plain good coffee." Get your java fix to go or savor it with a cup of oatmeal, slice of cinnamon bread, or blueberry muffin.
While the coffee and baked goods are incredible, customers also return to Boo Bear's Brew for the warm, helpful service. The baristas are frequently profiled on the shop's Facebook page, which creates a welcoming atmosphere of family. Be sure to greet Otis, the adorable gray cat who is Boo Bear's official mascot.
330.804.0051
Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
3046 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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In summer, ice cream takes on the status of a basic food group. Fulfill your basic daily requirement with a pint of one of the delicious flavors from Aglamesis Bro's, a Cincinnati tradition.
The original Aglamesis Bro's, Thomas and Nicholas, made their way to Cincinnati from Greece during the late 19th century. As sole support of their large family after the death of their father, the brothers learned the ice cream trade and opened their own ice cream parlor in 1908. Today, the third and fourth generations of the family carry on the tradition of first-class products and service.
513.531.5196
Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 10 p.m.

This is not a one-off special. Each month brings a new selection of exciting offers curated by Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts. Best of all, these gifts are completely free to you, just for participating.
Joining this exclusive group couldn't be any easier. Simply contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started.

With a charming mix of carnival rides, farm animals, and tasty food treats, county fairs are an iconic part of Midwest summers. In Ohio, these lively events date back literally hundreds of years. Mark your calendar for these must-see county fairs in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
735 W. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256
Better late than never! After a year off, the Medina County Fair is celebrating its 175th anniversary during its 176th year. Traditional events, such as the popular livestock shows and bull riding contest, pay tribute to the fair's past. Live concerts, drag racing, and motocross are some of the entertainment options that highlight Medina's present. Kids can show off their creativity in coloring, art, writing, and hay bale decorating contests. The Medina County Fair runs from Monday, August 2 through Sunday, August 8. Admission is $7 for everyone 12 and over and $3 for kids aged 2-11.
23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Wellington, OH 44090
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Another Northeast Ohio tradition observes a milestone as the Lorain County Fair, second largest in the state, reaches its 175th year. Each summer, people head to the fair for one last celebration before Labor Day leads into fall. One of the event's goals is to educate the public about animals with showings of horses, sheep, and poultry, along with auctions and skill demonstrations. Evening entertainment includes live music, derbies, and a rodeo. Enjoy thrilling midway rides for only $1 each or $20 for unlimited rides. Gates open at 8 a.m. each day from Sunday, August 22 to Sunday, August 29. Admission is $6, with no charge for kids aged 8 and under. A $30 season pass is good for seven admissions.
14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, OH 44021
The Great Geauga County Fair is just shy of two centuries, but it's twice as much fun as fairs half its age. Founded in 1823, the Great Geauga is the oldest continuous county fair in the state as well as one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the United States. There's fun for the whole family at the Natural Resource Area, which features demonstrations and activities centered around wildlife and environmental awareness. And what's a fair without an apple pie-eating contest? If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at the other family-friendly competitions, including Diaper Dash, Kiddie Tractor Pull, and 4-H 5K. The fair takes place Thursday, September 2 through Monday, September 6. Admission is $10 for ages 7 and above. Buy advance tickets online to save $2 and avoid the lines.
14028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH 43013
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Billed as the "Biggest Little Fair in the World," the Hartford Fair encompasses Licking County along with portions of Delaware and Knox counties. The fair also has a reputation as a reunion spot, as families use the occasion for annual gatherings of relatives from across the distance. Fans of motorsports are in seventh heaven with truck and tractor pulls, autocross, demolition derbies, and monster truck rallies. Even during the fair's earlier days, racing was the main attraction, including a foot race when Maggie McComb beat out William Lane. Fair days run from Sunday, August 8 through Saturday, August 14. Admission is $8 for ages 8 and above.
236 Pennsylvania Ave., Delaware, OH 43015
Who says the outdoor fun has to end with summer? Enjoy some post-Labor Day delights at the Delaware County Fair. Horses are the main event here, starting with the parade that kicks off the festivities and right up to the Little Brown Jug, the fair's signature harness race. The impressive motorsports complex is the site of demolition derbies, truck pulls, and even school bus races. With a wide range of activities from eating contests and putt-putt golf to scavenger hunts and kids' crafts, there's something for everyone. This year's fair is scheduled for Saturday, September 18 through Saturday, September 25.
14134 Letson Ave., Kenton, OH 43326
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September means back to school, and kids won't need any encouragement to attend the "classroom" at the Hardin County Fair. One of the top activities is COSI on Wheels, a traveling outreach program that offers a variety of dynamic interactive experiments. A petting zoo and Columbus Zoo exhibit provide opportunities to get up close and personal with some fascinating animals and birds. Eli the Magician stars in two shows a day and strolls the grounds, delighting fairgoers with amazing tricks. These activities are all included in fair admission, which is $10 for everyone aged 9 and older. Fair dates are Tuesday, September 7 through Sunday, September 12.
7700 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45216
Situated on 30 acres just north of Cincinnati, the Hamilton County Fair creates an interesting juxtaposition of agricultural and urban landscapes. City slickers get to learn about life on the farm, including a chance to try their hand at milking a cow. This year's grandstand events include go-kart racing and a soccer mom derby. Fire up your oven and prepare your best pies, cookies, breads, and cakes for the baking competitions. The Hamilton County Fair runs from Thursday, August 12 through Sunday, August 15. Admission is $10 per person, which includes all rides.
2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, OH 45804
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On October 21, 1851, it was reported that a "vast throng" attended the first Allen County Fair at Faurot Farm. Today, more than 200,000 visitors attend the annual event, making it one of the top fairs in the state. One of the biggest draws is the top-name entertainment that takes the main stage each year. Vince Gill, Def Leppard, Alabama, and Reba McEntire are just a few of the stars who have appeared at the Allen County Fair. 2021 is no exception, with Brad Paisley as the headliner. Fair days are Friday, August 20 through Saturday, August 28. Admission is $7 for ages 7 and up.
384 Park Ave., Urbana, OH 43078
The Champaign County Fair includes livestock shows, craft exhibits, and other traditional fair activities, but this year's event will also be a classic rock lover's dream. Opening night features a three-hour extravaganza with Beatles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands. Fair dates are Friday, August 6 through Friday, August 13. Admission of $8 includes rides, while tickets for Rock the Fair are an additional $10.
Fair food is so popular that it has its own show on Food Network. What's the most memorable food you've eaten at a fair?

Few foods have the universal appeal of cookies, which are a comforting treat for kids and grown-ups alike. It's no surprise that people are turning to cookies to celebrate birthdays, weddings, graduations, and other life events. Make your special occasion even more memorable with custom cookies from these talented bakers around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Julie Sepsi wants everyone to have a sweet day. The home-based baker started Sepsi Sweets to do her part in achieving that goal. One of Julie's signature creations is a treat box made from sugar cookies and vanilla royal icing. The covered container is ready to be filled with M&Ms, Hershey Kisses, or any other small surprise. Julie has also used her popular sugar cookies for an updated take on the holiday gingerbread house. If you prefer cake, Julie is equally creative with cupcakes, including her custom-made DIY cupcake kits.
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As an ER nurse, Courtney spends her days helping people heal. During her off-hours, she puts a smile on people's faces with Cookies by Courtney. Her delightfully designed treats look more like keepsakes than edible items. Courtney's cookies have taken the whimsical shapes of basketball shoes, cassette tapes, and Margaritas to commemorate everything from showers to book releases. All cookies are individually heat-sealed in cellophane bags.
Visit the Instagram page of NV Sweets and the first thing that leaps out is the array of vivid colors. Baker Nikki Vordem Esche goes beyond the standard palette of pastels to use primary colors and other bright hues on her eye-catching cookies. Recent creations from Nikki include "apples" for the teacher, strawberry cookies for a first birthday, watercolor volleyballs, and Mickey and Friends cookies that look like they were created at the Disney studio. In a truly inspired move, Nikki used her chocolate brownie cookie dough to make a box of chocolates that could have come from Godiva.
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Want to add a little international flair to your celebration? Choose some elegant and delicious French macarons from Six One Four Sweets. Macarons are delicate, perfectly round creations with filling layered between two meringue cookies. Dating back to the Renaissance, macarons lend themselves to a wide range of colors and flavors. Baker Alicia Perkins takes full advantage of the versatility of macarons, making them in a number of pastel colors with yummy fillings such as salted caramel, red velvet, strawberries and cream, funfetti, and buckeye. Traditional sugar cookies designed to fit your theme are also available.
Want your sweets disguised as savory treats? Ashley Combs of AMAEzing Sweet Shoppe recently created an entire cookie BBQ, complete with grills, hot dogs, burgers, oven mitts, and spatulas. Her other crossover designs include a cookie pizza and six-pack of beer. This past spring, associates from Proctor & Gamble ordered cookies from AMAEzing Sweet Shoppe to celebrate a five-year work anniversary. Ashley came up with a set featuring impeccable replicas of the logos from Pampers, Crest, Puffs, and other P&G brands.
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No, Poppy's Custom Cookies does not bear the name of its owner, but poppies do symbolize the vibrant visual appeal of their products. Arielle developed her love of baking during high school, when she began making cakes and cookies for family and friends. Today, Arielle's hobby has grown into a successful business that allows her to stay home with her two daughters. Arielle recently thrilled someone else's daughter with birthday cookies incorporating the youngster's own artwork. Local businesses have ordered cookies with their logos to use as unique giveaways for customers.
When you want some sweet treats, you can't go wrong with a business that has "Sugar" built right in their name. SOHO Sugar Co. is an abbreviated version of the original name, "South of Home Cookies," reflecting the addition of candy and cakesicles to the offerings. During the pandemic, Jordyn Diebler used the time to meld her love of art and baking into a home-based business baking custom-made cookies for all occasions. Double the fun with themed candy boxes or a design-your-own "charcuterie board."
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While Cristy Bowles modestly refers to herself as a "hobby cookier," Cristy's Cookie Creations have been a big hit around Northeast Ohio. Her showstopper piece is an edible "flower arrangement," featuring incredibly intricate detail right down to the individual petals. Even kids too young to remember are charmed by her cookie-based recreation of the Muppet Babies Star Wars characters. Even Cristy's "regular" cookies, such as pumpkin spice latte, are a big hit.
If Stephanie Rosselot of Sugar & Icing Cookie Co. looks familiar, it may be because she was featured in the summer issue of Sweet & Saucy Living, an online magazine devoted to cookie-making. Stephanie finds that creating her edible works of art provides a welcome balance to her full-time day job as a high-school math teacher. Both jobs complement each other in Stephanie's beginning and intermediate cookie decorating classes, held at Share Cheesebar and McHarper Manor.
Whether it's milk or coffee, are you a dunker? Or do you prefer your cookies as is?

One of Cutler Real Estate's core values is to Be Intentional: Don't leave things to chance. Honesty and Integrity...always. Be the brand standard of professionalism! That's exactly what our Realtors do every day to help buyers and sellers around Northeast Ohio, Columbus & Central Ohio, and Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky achieve their real estate goals.
We congratulate the following Realtors and groups for providing the superior customer service people have come to expect from Cutler Real Estate. Join us in celebrating the top producers, production leaders, and listing leaders for June 2021.