Governor Mike DeWine signed an executive order on Nov. 24 to distribute more than $13 million in grant funding to 53 different non-profits around Ohio.

Many Northeast Ohio organizations will receive funding under the order, including $50,000 to The Brightside Project that will give children in Columbiana County food, personal care items, and school supplies.

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, The Brightside Project has seen a 73% increase in children needing help through their Crisis Relief Food for Kids program. That need is due to the obvious pandemic, but also The Brightside Project's Co-Director Lisa Wallace believes it's part due to their outreach and an effort to mobilize.

"We're based in Salem, but we know it's difficult for families in East Liverpool or Wellsville, even East Palestine to make their way to us," said Wallace.

With $50,000 in state funding, Wallace said they can use the money to help purchase more food, personal care items and school supplies. 

"This funding is a big deal for children and families in Columbiana County. It was a very competitive grant process and we're so thankful that Governor DeWine saw value in our efforts so that Columbiana County children will receive relief because of this funding," said Wallace.

But the money can not go towards their dream of creating a mobile unit.

"We had originally wanted to buy a big bus, and we had it designed. We were going to buy a school bus that was transformed into a food pantry on wheels and that's still our ultimate goal. That's just going to be a funding thing," said Wallace.

The main facility is located at 138 S. Broadway Ave. Salem

Distribution locations will be posted on their Facebook page and website.