
The role of the public library continues to change, and residents in Chattooga County and Trion have access to services that go well beyond checking out a book.

The role of the public library continues to change, and residents in Chattooga County and Trion have access to services that go well beyond checking out a book.

United Way FPC is looking for a new Community Resource Specialist to help connect residents of Chattooga, Floyd and Polk counties with vital community services.
The organization recently posted the opening for a 211 Community Resource Specialist, a part-time position serving as a frontline representative for the United Way’s 211 program.

There’s Hope for the Hungry will be in Trion today, Thursday, August 13, providing free groceries to families and individuals in the community.
The food distribution will be held at Central Avenue Baptist Church from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.
There is no identification required to receive groceries. However, recipients must be present at the distribution to receive the food.
The church’s free Clothes Closet will also be open today from 10 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., providing another resource for those in need.
Central Avenue Baptist Church is located at 14074 Highway 27 in Trion, behind Dixie Subs.
Organizers encourage anyone who could benefit from the assistance to stop by during the distribution hours.
Free Grocery Giveaway: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Free Clothes Closet: 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Location: Central Avenue Baptist Church, 14074 Highway 27, Trion
ID Required: No
Important: You must be present to receive groceries.

The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce will host its first Lunch & Learn following the summer break on Monday, August 17, featuring a presentation on the United Way’s 211 resource program.
The event will be held from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hurley Community Development Center, located at 10050 Commerce Street in Summerville.
United Way is sponsoring the catered luncheon, which is open to the public. Director Alli Mitchell Ellard will provide an overview of the 211 program, a free and confidential service that connects individuals with resources for food, housing, utilities, healthcare, employment and disaster relief.
The Chamber asks those planning to attend to make a reservation to assist with catering arrangements.

When families face financial hardship or unexpected challenges, knowing where to turn for help can be one of the biggest obstacles. United Way of Floyd, Polk & Chattooga Counties is working to remove that barrier by connecting residents with assistance through the 211 helpline.

Chattooga County Community Resource Center Director Maisha Ludy says the community has provided every item needed for this year’s Back to School Bash, several days before the event.
Ludy announced Monday that all requested school supplies and other needed items have been collected. She said that in six years of coordinating the event, the organization has never completed its supply collection this far in advance.
The annual Back to School Bash will be held Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Chattooga High School.
The event will include free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, community resources and other activities for local students and families.
Organizers remind parents and guardians that children must be present to receive a backpack and school supplies.
Ludy thanked residents, businesses and organizations across the county for their generosity and support, saying the early response reflects the strength of the Chattooga County community.

A new community event aimed at supporting individuals with special needs and their families is coming to Summerville later this month.

A special community event focused on supporting individuals with special needs and connecting families with valuable resources is coming to Summerville later this month.
Spark Day will be held on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park.
Organizers say the event is designed to bring together the special needs community, local service providers, entrepreneurs, and families for a day of fun, fellowship, and information sharing.
Activities will include a foam party, free food, vendors, and opportunities to learn about available medical, respite, and community services. Attendees will also have the chance to meet special-needs entrepreneurs and browse a variety of vendor offerings.
According to promotional materials, free nachos will be available, and visitors can enjoy art, baked goods, coffee, jewelry, T-shirts, and a community resource meet-and-greet.
Organizers encourage families, caregivers, and community members to attend and show their support while learning more about resources available for individuals with special needs in the region.

The Chattooga County Health Fair is happening today, offering residents a chance to take advantage of free health services and resources in one convenient location.
The event runs from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center on Middle School Road in Summerville. Organizers say the health fair focuses on promoting wellness, prevention, and connecting the community with local healthcare providers.
Attendees can receive a wide range of free health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and BMI checks, along with dental screenings, HIV testing, and cancer screenings. Hands-on CPR education, Narcan training, and even free food distribution will also be available.
Mammograms will be offered by appointment for eligible participants, and a number of healthcare organizations and community partners will be on hand to provide information and support.
Officials encourage residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia to stop by, take advantage of the free services, and learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Community members are encouraged to make plans now to attend the 2nd Annual Chattooga County Health Fair, coming up one week from today on Saturday, April 18.