Delaware food pantry's message to drive donations includes infamous overpass

DELAWARE, Ohio (WCMH) — A Delaware County organization dedicated to making sure everyone has the food they need is hoping their new billboard at a notorious location can help make a difference. 

As drivers approach the West Central Avenue Railway overpass in the city of Delaware, they pass multiple signs telling them what the clearance is. There was also a high-tech warning system that went up in 2018. But still, the bridge gets hit.

“Everybody knows it as the can opener," said Brandon Feller, President of United Way of Delaware County (UWDC).

The bridge got its nickname because trucks that are too tall have tried to drive underneath and their tops have been damaged or peeled off. The bridge was hit 60 times from 2014-2024, according to the city of Delaware.

“We all knew the moment we got the billboard, we have to make a reference to the can opener," said Cheyenne Fletcher, Data and Marketing Manager for UWDC.

The billboard is right next to the bridge. The county health district is letting the Delaware County Hunger Alliance, which UWDC helps operate, use the space. Part of the design includes the words, "Donate to our local food pantries," surrounding a can being opened.

"We know it's something the community is aware of, and so when we had that opportunity to do that, we thought, 'Let's feature a can, we’re talking about the can opener, right next to the can opener, let's feature a can,' Feller said. "How can people donate food and be aware of the need for food in our community?"

Feller said there are 20,000 people in the county affected by food insecurity. He hopes the billboard will help get the word out about the need for donations. He said they're especially important as pantries are seeing an increased need.

“Take this opportunity as a reminder, when you see that billboard or when you see that post, take it as a reminder that our pantries rely on the public," Feller said.