Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does OPEN M stand for?

OPEN M stands for Opportunity Parish Ecumenical Neighborhood Ministry. We’re a faith-based nonprofit that serves the Greater Akron area by providing food, healthcare and resources—all at no cost.

Who can receive services at OPEN M?

Our services are available to individuals and families in Summit County who are in need. Some programs may have specific eligibility requirements, but we strive to serve as many people as possible with compassion and dignity.

Does OPEN M provide rent or utility assistance?

No, OPEN M does not provide assistance in paying rent or utilities, but we may be able to direct you to somewhere that can. The following is a list to places that might be able to offer assistance.

Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority

Summit County Department of Jobs and Family Services

Copley Outreach Center

Akron Ohio Salvation Army

Jewish Family Services of Akron

Community Legal Aid Services

Fair Housing Contact Service, Inc.

Info Line, Inc.

Canapi

Veterans Service Commission

Do you provide clothing assistance?

No, OPEN M does not provide clothing assistance, but there are other organizations in Akron that do.

Haven of Rest Ministries

Heart 4 the City

When is the next Mountain of Food?

Mountain of Food always takes place on the third Friday of each month. To see the full schedule, Click Here.

Who qualifies for Mountain of Food?

Mountain of Food has been opened up to residents of all zip codes. No referral or pre-registration is required. Please bring current ID and address. This is a mobile distribution in which you wait inside your vehicle. Please line up on Princeton St. and follow the line of cars to the end.

My neighbor/friend/family can’t make it to Mountain of Food. Can I pick up for them?

Yes, you are able to pick up food for someone else if you have a current proxy form on file. If you do not have one on file, you must bring one with you for us to keep on file.

A proxy is giving someone permission to pick up food for you. Please send a note with your name, the proxy name (who is picking up for you), current address, and names and birthdates for people in your household.

Do you accept food donations?

We accept all shelf-stable food items, personal care and toiletries. Adult depends (pull up only) and bed pads will be accepted. We are unable to accept refrigerated or frozen food items unless they are from an approved supplier.

Do I have to have an appointment to come to the OPEN M Medical Clinic?

Yes, OPEN M Health Services does not accept walk-ins. Appointments are required to be seen by one of our medical professionals. You must first enroll as a patient by calling 330-434-0110 ext. 413 and leaving a message with your first and last name and your reason for calling.

Do you accept medical donations?

Thank you for thinking of OPEN M. Drop-Off Days:

Tuesdays & Thursdays
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Medical Items We Accept:
• Unexpired medications (must not expire within the next 3 months)
• Refrigerated insulin (please bring in a cooler if possible)
• Unexpired needles
• Gauze & medical tape

We Cannot Accept:
• Walkers or canes
• Crutches
• Narcotics
• Bedside commodes
• Oxygen tanks

To find out if your donation is something we can accept, please call 330-434-0110 ext. 413.

I would like to volunteer my time in the Medical Clinic. How do I get started?

To get started, please fill out a volunteer application on our website at www.openm.org/volunteer.

I need help finding employment. Can you help?

Yes, our Employment Services team of professionals will be happy to assist you in securing lasting employment. Call 330-434-0110 ext. 423 or email employment@openm.org today to learn more.

My company is interested in partnering with OPEN M to become a core employer. Where do we start?

Please contact our Employment Services department at employment@openm.org or call 330-434-0110 ext. 423.