Consumers to be informed at resource fairs in Valley

You can learn how to avoid being a victim of fraud.

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — Consumers will have a chance to obtain useful consumer protection information and file consumer complaints with the Ohio attorney general’s office when an office representative visits Mahoning County libraries during National Consumer Protection Week from March 1 through 7.

The attorney general’s office is sponsoring “Smart Consumer Resource Fairs” to help consumers get the necessary tools to protect their pocketbook and avoid scams.

The program is co-sponsored locally by the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County and the Mahoning County Financial Stability Partnership.

Volunteers from Family Services Agency, Consumer Credit Counseling Services, the Better Business Bureau and other area organizations will be on hand to provide information and assist consumers with their complaints.

Volunteers will be available at five Mahoning County libraries.

Consumers can obtain information, speak with consumer protection advocates and professionals, and file consumer complaints with the attorney general’s office at these programs

Consumers can stop by these libraries between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to talk with volunteers: Monday, Newport Library, 3730 Market St. Youngstown; Tuesday, Austintown Library, 600 S. Raccoon Road; Wednesday, Sebring Library, 195 W. Ohio Ave.; March 5, Boardman Library, 7680 Glenwood Ave.; and March 6, Main Branch, 305 Wick Ave., Youngstown.

Computers and scanners will be available at each location for consumers to file their complaints electronically or to download a complaint form to mail. For more information, contact Jim Johnston, regional public affairs and outreach director for Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray at (330) 844-7519.