A Columbus nonprofit is delivering food and household essentials to immigrant families sheltering in place amid ongoing immigration enforcement concerns in Central Ohio.
Columbus Nonprofit Delivers Food to Immigrant Families Amid ICE Operation
Recent immigration enforcement activity in Columbus is significantly impacting the daily lives of immigrant families across Central Ohio. Many residents say fear and uncertainty have made it difficult to leave their homes even for essential needs like groceries. In response, a local nonprofit is stepping up to ensure vulnerable families are not left without basic necessities.
Our Helpers, a woman-led nonprofit serving immigrant and refugee communities in Franklin County, has launched emergency food and supply deliveries for families choosing to shelter in place amid concerns tied to ICE’s reported “Operation Buckeye.”
“Our doors are open to everyone,” said Our Helpers CEO Dorothy Hassan. “We are committed to protecting and supporting the people we serve, and we won’t stand by while fear disrupts their ability to live safely.”
Ordinarily, Our Helpers operates a community free store. However, following recent reports of immigration-related arrests in Central Ohio, the organization has shifted its operations to focus on home deliveries. The goal is to ensure families who feel unsafe traveling can still access food and household essentials.
The nonprofit relies entirely on community donations and volunteer support. Within the first week of the initiative, more than 100 food boxes were distributed, containing fresh produce and long-lasting pantry staples designed to help families prepare culturally familiar meals.
“These are items we know can stretch over time and support families in maintaining dignity and normalcy,” Hassan said.
Volunteers have been working seven days a week to meet the growing demand. Hassan says the response has already made a meaningful difference, with families reaching out to share how the support has helped during a difficult period.
Some families report staying home from work for extended periods, while others describe children translating fearful conversations for their parents. Beyond addressing food insecurity, Our Helpers is also exploring ways to support the emotional well-being of families coping with prolonged isolation.
“There were neighbors who couldn’t enjoy a beautiful day outside simply because they were afraid,” Hassan said. “We have a responsibility to look out for one another.”
Our Helpers continues to accept donations at its warehouse. Community members interested in contributing dry food staples or household items are encouraged to contact the organization through social media, where daily updates list the most urgent needs and drop-off details.
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