The grants were awarded through the Belmont County Enrichment Fund, which has provided funding to Belmont County nonprofit organizations since 2013.

Belmont County Enrichment Fund committee member Lova Ebbert said the fund was established in 2013 by a group of landowners who signed a lease with Rice Energy.

“At that time, we decided we’re going to find a way to give back. So we started the enrichment fund, and since then, we have given out over $700,000 to Belmont County,” Ebbert said. “We’re kind of unique in a way, because the money raised can only be used in Belmont County for Belmont County nonprofits.”

She said the fund is now supported through donations.

“The strength of Belmont County lies in the organizations working every day to serve their neighbors,” Executive Director Susie Nelson said. “Through the Belmont County Enrichment Fund, we’re able to invest in projects that create opportunity, build resilience and make a lasting difference across the county.”

She said the grants support programs and services that address community needs, strengthen neighborhoods and improve quality of life.

Among this year’s recipients, the Barnesville State Theater Company received $10,000 to renovate its restrooms.

The Belmont Volunteer Fire Department received $5,000 to help pay for a new fire engine.

Fire Chief Ed Tacosik said the funding will make a major impact.

Belmont Soar FC received $2,000 for portable field lighting. The Lafferty-based youth travel soccer club said the lights will allow teams to practice later in the evening.

The Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department received $4,775 for a carbon monoxide detector project.

Mayor Norma Teasdale said the village is working to upgrade its gas monitors.

“We’re trying to start replacing some of the things that were older, they still work though,” Teasdale said. “Understand that this volunteer fire department and the award that we’re receiving is greatly appreciated. We are using it to get gas monitors. I’ve been in the department for 38 years and I appreciate and thank you so much.”

Calvary Presbyterian Church received $2,000 for its Little Kidz Kloset program, which provides clothing and other necessities to families with children in need.

Faith in Action Caregivers Inc. received $3,000 for a volunteer match program that provides transportation services for older adults and people with disabilities.

First Christian Church received $5,000 for its 5 Loaves food ministry, which served about 1,000 families in 2025, according to church elder Mike Lucas.

Miracle of Life Support Group received $2,000 for its preschool clothing initiative, which provides diapers, wipes, clothing, blankets, bottles and other essentials to families in need. The program serves children through age 3.

Ohio Hills Health Services received $5,862 to expand health care services for underserved residents.

Clinical Quality Project Manager Kayla Reynolds said the funding will be used to purchase vital sign machines.

She said Barnesville is considered a medically underserved region and a health professional shortage area.

The OR&W Fire District received $5,826 for ice rescue equipment.

Fire Chief RC Fellows said a close call during an ice rescue this winter highlighted the need for the equipment.

R.L. Strength and Conditioning received $5,500 to support programs for local youth.

Owner Rick Leigh said the organization serves more than 100 children through activities focused on fitness, mentorship and confidence building.

The Belmont County Salvation Army received $5,500 to continue operating its emergency family shelter.

Maj. Connie Higgins said the shelter has 36 beds and currently houses 20 residents. The average stay is 48 days.

The Union Local School District received $10,000 for its middle school outdoor community recreation and education zone.

The project will include basketball courts, pickleball courts, a volleyball court and an outdoor STEM classroom that also will be open to the public after school hours.

The project is expected to be completed by 2027.