The Ohio Contractors Association – Eastern Chapter has made a generous $5,000 donation to the Blessings in a Backpack program at Harrison Hills City School District to support students facing food insecurity.

The donation was presented during the March packing event, where members of the OCA Eastern Chapter’s executive committee—including representatives from Mid Atlantic Maintenance, NLS Paving, and James White Construction—joined volunteers to help assemble food packages. This initiative ensures that students in need receive nutritious meals over weekends when school meals are unavailable.

“The support from OCA makes a tremendous difference in the lives of our students,” said Jenny Gibson, HHCSD EMIS Coordinator and coordinator of the Blessings program. “Their generosity not only provides essential resources but also reinforces the importance of community partnerships in meeting the needs of our children.”

In addition to supporting Blessings in a Backpack, the OCA Eastern Chapter also funds two annual scholarships for students entering the contracting field. This year, students from Harrison Central High School and St. Clairsville High School have been selected as recipients of these scholarships, furthering the organization’s commitment to education and workforce development.

The OCA Eastern Chapter, the smallest of the nine chapters in Ohio, has built a strong reputation for its fundraising efforts and community impact. In addition to its support of the Blessings in a Backpack program, the association contributes to several local initiatives, including Gifted Gates, an equine therapy program for at-risk youth, and The Gathering Place, which provides services to individuals experiencing homelessness.

For more information on how to donate or volunteer with the Blessings in a Backpack program, please contact Harrison Hills City School District.