BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Marion Matters, Inc. announced Thursday it is expanding its services to Crawford County, launching a new initiative called Crawford Matters in 2025.
The organization, known for its educational programs and community support, will offer a range of services aimed at assisting residents facing financial hardship and instability. These services include:
- Gettin’ Ahead in Just a Gettin’ By World: A class series designed to provide individuals with tools to stabilize their lives.
- Money Matters: A financial literacy program focusing on budgeting for those new to financial management.
- Community Navigation Service: A program to guide individuals in crisis to available resources and support classes.
“Marion Matters, Inc. was established in 2011 and is the region’s leading agency on Bridges Out of Poverty education and advocacy,” said Natalie Longmeier, executive director of Marion Matters, Inc. “The Board of Directors and I are excited to include expansion of services to neighboring communities as part of our three-year strategic plan that was finalized in 2024. Our staff has already begun to help residents in Crawford County through our Employer Resource Network®, which started last year, and now we can expand those efforts community-wide.”
The expansion comes as reports indicate a significant need for such services in Crawford County. According to UnitedForAlice.org, a national movement that studies the “growing number of families who are unable to afford the basic essentials” known as ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed), 42% of Crawford County residents struggle with basic needs such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, health care, and technology.
Crawford Matters aims to bridge the gap to self-sufficiency for ALICE individuals and those living in financial poverty. The organization will provide educational opportunities and support services to help residents achieve stability and improve their quality of life.