513Relief
The 513 Relief Bus Begins Celebrates its Fifth Year Bringing Resources to Hamilton County!
513 Relief
Access the support you need
We created this website to serve as a gateway to relief options available to Hamilton County residents. Together with our partners, we resolve to make community support known and swiftly provided to those in need.
Hamilton County Commissioners
Stephanie Summerow Dumas, President
Alicia Reece, Vice President
Denise Driehaus, Commissioner
513 Relief Alerts
We will be providing resource / program updates, so please sign up to receive alerts when they are posted.
513 Relief News
513 Relief News
Hamilton County and Council on Aging host Healthy Aging Summit May 27
Hamilton County Senior Utility Assistance Program and STEPS to Stability Applications for financial assistance with gas/electric utility bills (Duke only) will open on May 27 at the Healthy Aging Summit
Hamilton County, OH – In celebration of Older Americans Month, the Hamilton County 513Relief Bus, in partnership with Council on Aging, will host a Healthy Aging Summit on Wednesday, May 27 at The Word Family Life Event and Community Center.
The event will also mark the official launch of the Hamilton County Senior Utility Assistance Program, providing the first opportunity for eligible Hamilton County older adults to apply for financial assistance with their gas/electric utility bills. Information and eligibility criteria for the program can be found at http://www.help4seniors.org/steps.
“As founder of the Hamilton County 513Relief Bus, I am incredibly proud of the progress our county has made in partnership with Council on Aging to support our senior residents,” said Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece.
“From millions invested in utility assistance to critical home repairs, these programs are helping older adults age in place with dignity, independence, and the resources they need to thrive. Building on this momentum, I am proud to announce an annual Healthy Aging Senior Summit — a one-stop destination for services, information, and meaningful community impact.”
“As we celebrate Older Americans Month, this summit reflects our commitment to making Hamilton County a place where residents can age with dignity and support,” said Commission President Stephanie Summerow Dumas. “By bringing services directly into the community and launching this utility assistance program, we are removing barriers and ensuring our seniors have access to the resources they need to stay safe, healthy, and independent.”
“Hamilton County is proud to invest in the people who helped build this community, ensuring our older adults have access to the services they need to thrive,” said Commissioner Denise Driehaus. “With costs continuing to rise, especially for utilities, this partnership with Council on Aging and the 513Relief Bus is helping deliver real relief and making it easier for seniors to stay safe and stable in their homes.”
“It’s important that older adults across Hamilton County have access to Council on Aging’s programs and services, including STEPS to Stability and the Hamilton County Senior Utility Assistance Program. Through these programs, we can help older adults with short-term, urgent needs such as utility assistance and home repairs,” said Suzanne Burke, CEO, Council on Aging. “We’re kicking off our 2026 STEPS to Stability program at the Healthy Aging Summit by helping eligible older adults apply for utility assistance, and we’ll continue to accept utility assistance and home repair applications at events planned across the county in June. We’re grateful to Commissioner Reece and the 513Relief Bus for giving us the opportunity to bring this program directly to Hamilton County older adults.”
DETAILS
- When: Wednesday, May 27 | 10 AM – 2 PM
- Where: The Word Family Life Event and Community Center (Word of Deliverance), 693 Fresno Rd, 45240
- Media availability with Commissioner Alicia Reece at 10 AM.
State of Aging (10 AM)
- 50+ community partners providing resources and education
- Free health screenings
- Interactive workshops, including:
- Fall prevention
- Estate planning
- Tai Chi
- Free lunch
- Raffles
Resource Fair (11 AM – 2 PM)
- 50+ community partners providing resources and education
- Free health screenings
- Interactive workshops, including:
- Fall prevention
- Estate planning
- Tai Chi
- Free lunch
- Raffles
Utility Assistance for Seniors
Hamilton County Senior Utility Assistance Program and STEPS to Stability Applications for financial assistance with gas/electric utility bills (Duke only) will open on May 27 at the Healthy Aging Summit and will continue through June. Applicants must have their Duke account number in order to apply. Individuals who received utility assistance through this program in 2025 are not eligible to apply again in 2026.
Hamilton County to Host Small Business Day May 18
RSVP to Attend the 4th Annual Small Business Day
HAMILTON COUNTY, OH – Hamilton County is bringing together entrepreneurs, resource partners, and industry leaders for its 4th Annual Small Business Day—a one-stop event designed to help small businesses grow, thrive, and succeed.
The event will take place Monday, May 18 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Sharonville Convention Center and is open to small business owners at all stages—from startups to established companies looking to scale. RSVP Now on Eventbrite.
Small Business Day is built around making real connections that lead to real results. Attendees will have direct access to funding resources, educational sessions, technical assistance, and procurement opportunities through four featured areas:
- Resource Zone: Connect with lenders, advisors, and organizations offering support on financing, certifications, and business development
- Deal Zone: Meet with larger companies and public sector partners to explore contracting opportunities
- Coaching and Consultation: Participate in one-on-one sessions with business advisors to receive personalized guidance and actionable next steps
- Breakout Sessions: Attend expert-led workshops on AI quickstart, marketing and branding, financial management and funding readiness
The event will also feature networking opportunities, expert guidance, and one-on-one conversations with decision-makers—all in one place.
Small businesses play a critical role in Hamilton County’s economy, and this event is designed to break down barriers and open doors for entrepreneurs looking to take their next step.
EVENT DETAILS:
What: 4th Annual Small Business Day
When: Monday, May 18, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: Sharonville Convention Center, 11355 Chester Road, Cincinnati, OH
Hamilton County 513Relief Bus to Host State of Cancer Caucus and Expo
The Hamilton County 513Relief Bus to host Cancer Caucus and Expo Wednesday, October 15
The Hamilton County 513Relief Bus is dedicating a special day to cancer prevention, education, and support resources on Wednesday, October 15 at the Urban League of Southwest Ohio. From 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., residents can visit the 513Relief Bus and take advantage of free health screenings, connect with local health providers, and access valuable community resources. Attendees will also enjoy free food, fresh produce, and raffles.
The UC Health Mobile Mammography Bus will also be on-site from noon to 2 p.m. Screening appointments are billed to medical insurance; financial assistance is available for those without coverage. To schedule a mammogram, call 513-584-PINK (7465).
As part of the day, the State of Cancer Caucus will take place earlier that morning, featuring expert discussions on cancer research and survivorship, led by Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece.
EVENT DETAILS
WHEN
Wednesday, October 15
9:00 a.m. – State of Cancer Caucus
10:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. – Cancer education, resources, and 513Relief Bus services
WHERE
Urban League of Southwest Ohio
3458 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45229
WHAT TO EXPECT
• Free health screenings on-site
• Cancer prevention and education
• Resources and services from the 513Relief Bus
• Free food, fresh produce, and raffles
Hamilton County Announces 2nd Annual Military & Veterans Appreciation Day
A Celebration of Service and Community Coming August 23
The Hamilton County Board of Commissioners, in partnership with the Hamilton County Veterans Service Commission and key community organizations, announced the return of the Hamilton County Military & Veterans Appreciation Day, a free community-wide celebration honoring veterans and active-duty military members. The event will take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, form 2 pm-10 pm at Sawyer Point and will feature live entertainment, family activities, military exhibits, resource connections, and a fireworks finale. Veterans are asked to register at https://www.hcvsc.org/ for free food and door prizes.
“We’ve created a tradition that uplifts veterans through celebration and support — exemplified by connecting with more than 3,000 veterans and family members last year through this impactful event,” said Commissioner Alicia Reece. “From free resources for veterans and their families to live music, this event reflects our promise to show appreciation not just through words, but through expanded action.”
“This day is about honoring our veterans and connecting them with the support they deserve,” said Commission President Denise Driehaus. “Events like this show our commitment to community, service, and gratitude—values that continue to guide Hamilton County forward.”
“Veterans from all backgrounds deserve to be seen and supported,” added Commissioner Stephanie Summerow Dumas. “By uniting partners and resources, this event helps meet real needs and reminds our veterans that their sacrifices matter to all of us, every day.”
This year’s event builds on the success of the inaugural celebration at Great American Ball Park, which drew more than 3,000 veterans and their families. This year’s expanded version includes new and strengthened partnerships with the Association of the U.S. Army, Disabled American Veterans, the Cincinnati VA Medical Center, and Cincinnati Parks.
Veterans, military families, and community members are encouraged to register at https://www.hcvsc.org/.
513Relief Bus Rolls into 2024 with Two Dozen Hamilton County Departments
‘Everything Hamilton County’ Delivers Vital Services to Underserved Communities
The 513Relief Bus, a nationally recognized initiative of the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners, is rolling out its 2024 season by teaming up with an unprecedented number of partners. Over 20 County Departments will be on hand Wednesday, February 7, 2024, 10am-3pm at Corinthian Baptist Church, 1920 Tennessee Ave. (45237) to help those in need with fresh produce, homeowner assistance, tax resources and information, medical screenings, veteran services, job resources and more!
The 513Relief Bus is designed to reach communities that may face barriers in accessing essential services. Through strategic planning and community collaboration, the 513Relief Bus aims to provide resources directly to residents using a community-based approach.
‘Everything Hamilton County’ Key Partners and Expanded Services
- Hamilton County Auditor’s Office (Board of Revision, Homestead Credit, Owner Occupancy Credit)
- City Link (employment services)
- Closing the Health Gap (health services and information)
- Council on Aging (aging adult and caregiver services and resources)
- Easterseals (Disability, Veteran and Employment & Training Services)
- Economic Community Development Institute/ECDI (small business resources, bookkeeping, website, marketing, financial readiness, and access to funding)
- Hamilton County Board of Elections (voter registration)
- Hamilton County Clerk of Courts (Help Center: Municipal Civil Court; Auto Title & Passport info)
- Hamilton County Clerk of the Board of Commissioners (notary services)
- Hamilton County Commission on Women and Girls (personal hygiene products)
- Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (intake, resources, and services)
- Hamilton County Department of Economic Inclusion and Equity
- Hamilton County Human Resources (accepting applications for County employment)
- Hamilton County Job and Family Services (Mortgage & Utility Relief Program, cash assistance, food assistance, Medicaid, childcare inquiries, child support modification applications and real-time case information, guidance, fatherhood support, kinship support, workforce, and jobs)
- Hamilton County Office of Reentry (intake and resources for returning citizens)
- Hamilton County Office of Small Business (coaching, business planning and connection to small business resources)
- Hamilton County Office of Youth (youth employment)
- Hamilton County Ohio Means Jobs (job search, resources and employment services)
- Hamilton County Public Defender’s Office (expungement, background assessments)
- Hamilton County Public Health (FREE birth certificates, health education, lead info, infant and child vitality)
- Hamilton County Public Library (library card renewal)
- Hamilton County Quick Response Team (substance use education, linkage to treatment, harm reduction materials)
- Hamilton County Recorder’s Office (homeowner fraud alert, veteran ID applications)
- Hamilton County Resource (food boxes, fresh produce)
- Hamilton County Sheriff (free gun locks)
- Hamilton County Treasurer (property tax payment plans, prepayment plans / escrow info)
- Hamilton County Veterans Services Commission (Veterans services, linkage to assistance)
- Legal Aid (tax attorneys to answer questions, self-help in real time)
- Metropolitan Sewer District (utility help, customer assistance program for seniors)
- OhioMeansJobs (work force development)
- Sweetcheeks (free diapers)
- Talbert House Medical (blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol screenings)
- Talbert House Social Services (mental health, social services, substance abuse)
- United Way (tax resources and information)
- Urban League (career development program enrollment)
Find the 513Relief All Year
Residents can find the growing 2024 Bus Schedule here.
New 513 Relief Bus Hits the Streets
Hamilton County’s New 513Relief Bus Brings Mobile Services Directly to Neighborhoods
County Commissioners cut the ribbon on the new bus Thursday, Jan. 26 at Corinthian Baptist Church, 1920 Tennessee Avenue. Residents immediately started using the services the bus provides, including health screenings, help applying for public assistance, support for older adults and caregivers, employment connections, financial literacy, career styling, mental health and substance abuse referrals and Covid-19 vaccinations.
Working together, Hamilton County departments and other partner agencies are proactively reaching as many residents as possible with a wide variety of services. The 513Relief Bus removes barriers that might keep residents from seeking help, including accessibility, transportation and technology.
Commission President Alicia Reece invites the whole community to the new bus stops.
“We helped over 4,000 people with our pilot bus in 2021,” said President Reece. “Today, we are announcing the new permanent tech bus that allows Hamilton County to go mobile countywide with health and economic services to help residents. We are using technology to deliver services in what has become a national model.”
“At the onset of the pandemic, we quickly learned there are numerous residents of our county who are hard to reach in traditional ways,” said Commissioner Denise Driehaus. “This gives us the ability to engage people in their own community in a proactive way.” Commissioner Stephanie Summerow Dumas said she’s excited about bringing resources directly to people.
“We can’t expect them to find us,” she said. “We are bringing help to them. That’s important because it shifts the perception away from being just a number to face-to-face interactions that hopefully lead to meaningful support.”
Before the new bus, the county borrowed a bus from UC Health. That bus already helped more than 4,000 people with relief and vaccinations. It visited 28 zip codes in 2021 and took applications for rent, utility and mortgage relief from people living in 50 zip codes.
Introduced by Commissioner Reece and unanimously supported by the board of commissioners, the bus idea was adopted with the support of local civil rights and grassroots leaders, who suggested a one-stop bus to fight Covid-19 and other health and economic disparities.
County Departments that are participating include:
- Hamilton County Job and Family Services
- Hamilton County Office of Reentry
- Hamilton County Public Health
- Hamilton County Community, Outreach, Recovery and Engagement Program (CORE)
Other organizations participating include:
- Council on Aging
- Dress for Success
- Your Priority Healthcare
- UC Health
- Urban League
- Addition Services Council
- Talbert House
For more information and the bus schedule, please see 513Relief.org/bus.
513Relief Bus Is Headed Your Way
The 513Relief Bus Brings Resources to Those Who Need Them
Hamilton County Board of County Commissioners recognizes the need to deliver social services, including no-cost COVID-19 vaccinations, to Hamilton County neighborhoods. The Hamilton County 513Relief Bus (the Hamilton County Equity and Resources Mobile Tech Bus) will provide those resources directly to those who need it most.
NO COST Resources:
- COVID-19 Vaccinations by the UC Health
- HCJFS is providing information, direct assistance and/or on-sight applications for:
- Cash
- Food
- Medicaid
- Rent and Utility Help
- Workforce Development
- Child Support / Child Care
NO APPOINTMENT Needed
Have questions? Contact us.