Mahaska Connect Event Links Residents with Services

OSKALOOSA – After a successful initial event in October 2020, Love INC is again hosting Mahaska Connect. The event links individuals and families to various services available in Mahaska County. Nearly 100 attended the 2020 event. This year’s event occurs Saturday, Oct. 23 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Many new services have joined Love INC and its member churches for the event to be held at Central Methodist Church in Oskaloosa. Conveniently located at the intersection of North Market and A Avenue, the facility provides adequate parking.

For Mahaska County’s homeless and near-homeless, the past 18 months have been difficult with limited access to services or where to even go to find assistance. The inability to adequately interact with legal services, courthouse offices, personal services and other obstacles have created frustration for many.

Love INC, with its partnership of churches, is providing an opportunity for those who need services from legal to personal care, or just someone to talk to may find those resources. Mahaska Connect will link homeless or near-homeless with the opportunity to access a number of services free of charge.

Legal services, such as court for minor offenses and securing birth certificates; personal care such as haircuts, housing information, medical and vision screenings, vaccinations; housing information, counseling services and a multitude of other services. Hot lunch will be provided.

“Love INC of Mahaska County is hosting Mahaska Connect to bridge the gap between our neighbors needing assistance and the church and community resources they need,” said executive director Susan Doolan. “It is a great testimony as our community comes together during these challenging times.”

Transportation to and from the event will be available from Beacon, New Sharon, Fremont, University Park and Rose Hill. For more information, contact Love INC at 641-676-3750.