The government shutdown might be over, but many people are still feeling its effects. In response, a local Toledo business is stepping in to help.
TOLEDO, Ohio — The government shutdown might be over, but many people are still feeling its effects.
In response, a local Toledo business is stepping in to help those who are struggling by providing essential resources to get them through the month.
Handmade Toledo has been hosting food drives that offer free food and other necessary items to anyone in need.
Organizers say their goal is simple: meet people where they are—no questions asked.
Handmade Toledo, in Toledo’s uptown neighborhood, primarily carries items made by local artisans.
In addition to the artistic items they sell, they also use their store to provide a warm and welcoming space for people to pick up food, ensuring everyone feels supported.
Megan Aherne, manager of Handmade Toledo, says the effort was amplified by a generous community donation.
“At any moment in time, whether the government is shut down or not, we listen to the needs of our community and show up in any way that we can. That’s the most important thing to us. That’s the lifeblood of our business,” said Aherne.
For Stef Klages, who helped organize the food drive, the effort is deeply personal. Having experienced homelessness himself, he understands the impact of support firsthand.
“If it wasn’t for people doing exactly what I’m doing right now, you might not be looking at me. Everyone deserves love regardless,” said Klages.
He adds that food drives like this make a real difference for those struggling to make ends meet, especially in times of need.
“This was absolutely in response to that. They cut SNAP funding four days before our open mic, so we pushed pretty hard for this canned food drive because that’s how you show people you love them,” said Klages.
Handmade Toledo hosts food drives every second Tuesday of the month. For more information, you can click here.
