Encouragement for kids with rare health conditions
Operation Surprise Attack is a volunteer-based service that provides support to kids suffering from rare health conditions. The program’s volunteers create and deliver personalized cards and letters with words of encouragement for kids who are struggling. Donations come from all over the United States. The recipients often share what they’ve received on social media in support of OSA. OSA accepts donations to help fund supplies for the delivery events and relieve financial burdens from struggling families whenever possible. OSA is always accepting volunteers and encourages anyone who wants to make a difference to contact Lisa@operationsupriseattack.org.
Operation Surprise Attack, 27100 Oak Mead Dr., Perrysburg. 567-331-2162. operationsurpriseattack.org
Mobile Mammography
The Mercy Health Mobile Mammography Van travels through Northwest Ohio, allowing for safe, convenient and comfortable mammogram screenings without a physician’s order. The 15-minute screenings are performed by a licensed technologist and both 2D and 3D screenings are available. Mercy Health also offers financial assistance for the service, with zero-cost screenings
available to qualifying participants. More information provided via phone when the appointment is made. Mercy Health is offering this service in Toledo, Perrysburg, Swanton, Waterville, Holland and Oregon. Appointments can be made via phone at 833-MAMMVAN (833-626-6826). Learn more at Mercy.com.
DREAM at the Library
The Toledo Lucas County Public Libraries have unveiled their newest program: The DREAM Project. The Disability Representation, Education, and Awareness in Media Project partners TLCPL with the Ability Center of Greater Toledo to help educate children, promoting literature that includes, honors and respects creators with disabilities and their stories.
The project focuses on early education (ages one to three) and pre-school and kindergarten education. Schools that are participating in the program will be provided with copies of the DREAM book list curated by reviewers from the Ability Center, as well as education modules to encourage further discussion and classroom education.
Copies of the books are available for parents who wish to participate in the project at home. Learn more about the program by visiting abilitycenter.org/dream.
Battling the effects of substance abuse
The Hero Project is a community effort that supports children and families suffering from the effects of drug addiction. THP provides safe spaces for children to get help, tell their stories and grieve. They are now accepting donations to create safe group environments across the area, as well as to provide affordable housing for those recovering from substance abuse. A strong belief of the Hero Project is the power of community. They have used this to partner with local businesses and organizations to encourage others to speak up and get involved. Partners include Bullfrog Nutrition, Almost Human Coffee, Brightview Addiction Center and the Toledo Lucas County Health Department. Learn more at theheroproject.net.
