With times being difficult due to the coronavirus restrictions, local and community groups have been stepping in to assist families in their time of need.

From food pantries to those helping others to shop, it takes a village to keep things going.

Fortunately, two organizations in Lawrence County received some much needed help in their missions last week.

First, the Ironton-Lawrence County CAO received more than $60,000 from the federal government, U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson, R-Ohio announced.

The CAO has been a force assisting many low-income families in the area, so these funds will be much appreciated.

In Huntington, the United Way of the River Cities announced a micro-grant program was being created due to the coronavirus crisis.

More than $80,000 is in the fund, which will be distributed to local groups on a fast-track basis.

The first recipient was Backpack Buddies, which has been providing food to children after school throughout the county.

They continue to be active while schools are closed and are helping to continue food services to children, as well as making their pantry available to the community.

The United Way’s grant will help them to replenish these efforts and keep things going in coming months.

Both of these announcements were much appreciated news and we know the funds will be put to good use.