The Neighbor-to-Neighbor Ministry Team attended the third annual Faith and Legislative Leaders’ Luncheon sponsored by the Hunger Network in Ohio (HNO) on Thursday, May 1st. HNO is an advocacy ministry supported by several faith organizations including Holy Trinity and the Southern Ohio Synod of the ELCA. The theme of the meeting was that the State of Ohio budget is a moral document and that it must address the needs of the poor, homeless and hungry. We heard from religious and political leaders along with key people in service providers throughout the state. We found especially encouraging Republican Senator Louis Blessing and Democratic Representative Bride Rose Sweeny describe their efforts to ensure that the budget for the State of Ohio fairly address housing, hunger and education. We also heard Rev. Dr. Jack Sullivan, Executive Director of the Ohio Council of Churches, preach on the Biblical message of peace, justice, and love.
More details about the Hunger Network in Ohio can be found at https://www.hungernetohio.com/ . Deacon Nick Bates, who will be preaching at Holy Trinity later this year, directs the network and works throughout the year to enlighten legislators about the needs of the poor and to monitor the Ohio legislature’s budget development process. In 2025, top budget priorities for the HNO include:
- School meals
- Food banks
- Senior nutrition
- Earned income tax credit
- Safe, decent affordable housing
No doubt, the issues are complex, but as Senator Blessing made clear, the State of Ohio can afford to have a moral budget. To learn more, visit the web site or attend the next Neighbor-to-Neighbor meeting on Monday, May 12th at 7:00 pm at Holy Trinity.
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