COLUMBIANA COUNTY, Ohio - The Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board is hosting an event aimed at providing essential support to those struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues.

Called Operation BRIDGE Days, the board is providing free health screenings, substance abuse and mental health treatment resources and various community service agencies providing essential support.

This includes job-seeking assistance, food pantries and more, according to a news release from the board.

The goal is to serve 1,000 meals and connect those in need with resources for a healthier and more stable future.

"With this event especially, you get a lot of people that need help that are able to see the resources that are available here locally," said Brian McLaughlin, the sheriff of Columbiana County, "A lot of people don't think we have those resources but obviously by the number of people here, we do have those resources and we are here to help."

It began July 17 and will go for one more day. It starts at 9 a.m. and goes through 4 p.m.

The second day will be on the closed street in front of the Way Station on 125 West Fifth Street in East Liverpool.