Scioto County • October 15, 2025
Good morning, Scioto County. Did you know that a global movement to brighten the holidays for 12 million children is happening right in our backyard? Operation Christmas Child is setting up collection points across Portsmouth, Minford, and Wheelersburg as part of a worldwide initiative that's been spreading joy since 1993. These simple shoebox gifts represent powerful expressions of love to children facing war, poverty, and disaster—a reminder that sometimes the smallest packages carry the biggest impact.
Meanwhile, local champions for community improvement continue their inspiring work. The Portsmouth Area Ladies organization has been quietly transforming our region for 17 years through strategic grant-making, with applications due October 20. As they fund projects addressing local needs, the Scioto County Developmental Disabilities Board prepares for their October 16 meeting at the Carousel Center—further evidence that grassroots efforts remain the backbone of positive change throughout our community.
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🎁 Operation Christmas Child prepares to collect shoebox gifts nationwide. Volunteers are setting up drop-off locations in Portsmouth, Minford, and Wheelersburg as part of nearly 5,000 collection points across the country. The initiative, running since 1993, aims to reach 12 million children affected by war, poverty, disease, and disaster in 2025. Participants can pack shoeboxes following guidelines at SAMARITANSPURSE.ORG/OCC, with the organization partnering with local churches globally to deliver these expressions of love. Donors can contribute $10 online through "Follow Your Box" to track their gift's destination.
📅 Scioto County Developmental Disabilities announces October board meeting. The meeting will take place Thursday, October 16, at 5:00 p.m. at the Carousel Center in Portsmouth. An Ethics Council meeting is also scheduled for 4:45 p.m. at the same location if needed. Both meetings are open to the public, with the exception of any executive session. Community members who want their events listed in the calendar are encouraged to send information to rray@hdmediallc.com.
🎁 Portsmouth ladies power community change through generous grants. For 17 years, the Portsmouth Area Ladies organization has been improving quality of life through strategic fundraising and community grants. The volunteer group raises money through various events, then distributes funds to organizations addressing local needs. Their commitment to community improvement continues with the current grant cycle, which has an October 20 deadline. PALS exemplifies grassroots philanthropy by turning local fundraising into tangible community enhancement projects across the Portsmouth area.
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-Joshua 1:9
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