Linden is one of the most under resourced neighborhoods in Columbus. With high rates of food insecurity, vacant properties, and limited economic investment, our guests who need resources often find ways to get by without accessing them. When we began planning meetings with Molina’s community engagement team this summer, Linden was a neighborhood we all agreed needed our attention.

A criminal record can follow someone for years, standing between them and a job, stable housing, or a fresh start. Even when someone qualifies to have their record cleared, navigating the legal system can be a barrier of its own.

Since launching our mobile expungement initiative one year ago, 241 guests have received support through our Pop-Up Care Villages, street outreach, and one-on-one case management.

Last Tuesday, 28 records were cleared, opening doors to new opportunities for employment, housing, and stability. But some of the most meaningful moments happened when people showed up without knowing what they needed and left with a barrier removed.