Bank collecting food for local residents

First Financial Bank associates and community members are collecting food to be given to people in need.

From Nov. 6-17, nonperishable food items can be dropped off during normal business hours at its financial center in Franklin, located at 50 Branigin Road.

At the completion of the food drive, associates in these financial centers will distribute the food to the community through local organizations.

Health Network collects 650 lbs. of medication

Community Health Network sites served as a secure drop off locations for expired and no longer needed medications as part of the national Drug Take Back event.

Proper disposal of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications keeps our homes and neighborhoods safer. It prevents accidental poisoning of children and pets. It can also ensure that personal information on prescription bottles will not be used for identity theft.

Community Hospital South added to the event by incorporating a Fall Health and Wellness Fair. This included free flu shots, blood pressure screenings, education and information on health issues and treatment available and family fun activities to kick off the fall season in a safe, fun and healthy environment.

FSSA announces $25 million grant to address child care needs

The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning announced the Employer-Sponsored Child Care Fund, to mobilize employers and communities to create or expand child care offerings that address the needs of working Hoosiers.

The $25 million program, uses a portion of the state’s remaining federal relief funds from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grant funding can be used to support employees’ child care needs in a variety of ways, including sponsoring dependent care assistance plans, providing on-site or near-site child care or offering child care tuition benefits. Grants of up to $750,000 will be awarded.

To be eligible, employers must be located in Indiana and either a business or corporation employing 20 or more employees, a group of employers with 20 or more employees or a community-based nonprofit applying on behalf of a group of local employers with a combined total of 20 or more employees. Employers must also be willing to contribute 10% of the total amount requested and be able to implement solutions within the first year of the program.

Applications will be accepted until Nov. 22.

Upcoming Franklin Chamber events

The Franklin Chamber of Commerce is mixing business with travel with a one-of-a-kind networking opportunity. In partnership with Sapphire Seas Travel, the Franklin Chamber is announcing a 10-day, adventure-filled excursion to the central Italian region of Tuscany. Participants will explore art and culture in Florence, take in the vistas en route to Pienza, stroll through piazzas in Lucca, see the landmarks in Pisa and more. Spots are limited and will fill up quickly. Contact the Franklin Chamber for more information at www.franklincoc.org.

The Franklin Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for awards to be given during the 2024 Franklin Chamber Annual Meeting in Feb. These awards recognize and honor businesses and individuals for making a difference in the community. Awards include, Business Hall of Fame, Community Impact and Community Service. Award nomination forms are available on the Chamber website at https://www.franklincoc.org/news or by contacting the Chamber office and will be accepted until Dec. 31.