By Logan Andrew | FreeWire
At 133 North Sandusky Avenue in Bucyrus, inside the former Struble’s Pharmacy building, something new is happening — or perhaps something reborn. New Day Ministries Outreach Center has become a lifeline for many in the community, offering more than just food. Inside, shelves are stocked with essentials, the thrift store hums with quiet activity, and the people behind the mission move with purpose. They’re not just handing out meals — they’re distributing dignity.
Lisa Whited knows the building well. She worked here for years when it was still a pharmacy. Now, she’s back — this time serving as the heart of New Day’s operations. After a year on staff, she’s become a trusted face to many who walk through the doors looking for help.
“I love dealing with the public and seeing how truly grateful they are,” she says. “Whether it’s a senior citizen or a gentleman trying to get back on his feet, it all matters.”
The pantry is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and again from 1 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. Staff stress that they do not accept donations on weekends — anything dropped off outside those hours is likely to be stolen or ruined by weather.
New Day receives much of its food from Second Harvest out of Lorain and estimates that since its founding, it has given away more than 14 million meals. The center is funded through donations, as well as a thrift store where community members bring gently used items to be resold. They currently have a team of about ten people — some volunteers, others placed through Jobs and Family Services programs for both senior citizens and teens.
Although the outreach center operates on Sandusky Street, the church itself is located at 301 East Warren Street. Bible study is held Sundays at 10 a.m., followed by service at 10:30. A Wednesday night service is streamed live on Facebook. The church recently hosted an Easter egg hunt for children in the community — just one example of their broader outreach.
Still, like many nonprofits, they’re feeling the crunch. Federal funding has stopped, and while Governor Mike DeWine has asked the Ohio Legislature to step in, the state house has yet to approve any relief. In response, New Day has sent out letters to local businesses, hoping for some support.
One of those stepping up is Shanna Nash, owner of Trinity Monuments and Trinco Auto Repair. She’s organizing a raffle to help raise donations. Three themed baskets — one featuring a $700 Michael Kors purse, one for men, and one for children — will be raffled off. All it takes to enter is a non-perishable food donation.
For Lisa, the mission is more than a job — it’s personal. Her son, Cody Scott, is currently running for Bucyrus City Council, and while she prefers to keep work and politics separate, she admits the attacks on him hurt.
“I hate when people attack him,” she says. “As a mom, it hurts.”
It’s a brief moment of vulnerability from a woman who otherwise carries herself like a guard dog — loyal, focused, and fiercely protective of her community. She’s seen a lot in this building over the years, but today, she’s helping it serve its highest purpose.
“Whether you’re donating a bag of clothes or a thousand dollars,” she says, “it all helps.”
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