Is it legal to feed the homeless? See what Ohio law says about Thanksgiving tradition
In the season of giving, what could be better than giving a hot, homemade meal to someone in need?
Well, there’s honestly probably nothing better.
However, if you live in Ohio, there are some things to know before you go handing out your homemade meatloaf or green bean casserole. For example, it might actually be illegal.
Here’s what to know:
Is it legal to hand out homemade food to the homeless in Ohio?
Well, sort of. At least in bigger cities.
According to a Dayton, Ohio city ordinance, you must have a permit before handing out any meals to the homeless.
Under the ordinance, it is “against the law to prepare or distribute food, clothing or toiletries in a public place within the central area of the city without a city permit.”
In parts of northeast Ohio, a city permit is also required to give out food on public squares.
Mahoning County does not have any specific laws against passing out free homemade food, but the state’s good samaritan law and cottage food protection would apply.
The good samaritan law says if you donate food in good faith, you are not liable if the food harms someone.
Cottage food protection applies to food prepared at home for commercial use or sales, but shows that non-hazardous food preparation does not require a permit. The same would apply to donated food.
So, what are the consequences for handing out homemade food without a permit?
If you get caught handing out food to the homeless without a permit in city limits, you’ll be found in violation of the ordinance which results in a fourth-degree misdemeanor.
Several citizens in protest of the ordinance have said they feel this “violates her First Amendment right to freedom of assembly.”
So, why the rules for a basic act of kindness? Some may argue that the homeless “become dependent on these activities, leading them to stay on the streets instead of seeking the help and support they truly need.”
Other reasons include sanitary issues or foodborne illness outbreaks.
What can you do to help the homeless?
The safest way to avoid complications is to team up with local nonprofits, who would likely have the necessary permits. In Mahoning County, Catholic Charities Regional Agency is one such charity. Another safe option is donating to local food banks like Second Harvest or the Youngstown Community Food Bank.
There are several other ways to lend a helping hand to the homeless. Here are a few ideas:
- Volunteer with YMCA Columbus, Ohio, to serve meals at a YMCA kitchen or donate money to help build and cook meals
- Get involved with Project Hope in Painesville Township, Ohio, where you can visit shelter guests, help feed families and donate needed items
- Search for Thanksgiving or holiday outreach programs in your area
Does this news surprise you? Why or why not? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.
