SPRINGFIELD, Ohio – In the quiet corners of Springfield, Ohio — out of sight of the drumbeat of politicians and journalists, troopers and newly installed security cameras — the people who live here are taking a breath, praying, and attempting to carry on.

Between the morning bomb sweeps of Springfield’s schools and the near daily afternoon media briefings, a hush comes over the city of 58,000 that residents say is uncanny, haunting even. It’s fear, confusion, and dismay at being transformed overnight into a target for the nation’s vitriol.

Pastor Andy Mobley, who runs the Family Needs Inc. food pantry on the city’s south side, said people are hunkered down out of the public eye, hoping the attention sparked by former President Donald Trump spreading unsubstantiated rumors about the city’s legal Haitian immigrants eating house pets during last week’s presidential debate will blow over.

Trump and his vice presidential running mate, Ohio’s junior Sen. JD Vance, have used the cat-eating rumors to draw attention to the city’s 15,000 Haitian immigrants, whose arrival to fill manufacturing, distribution, and warehouse jobs has put a severe strain on local resources.

Since the Republican candidates’ initial comments, more than two dozen bomb threats — mostly from foreign actors seeking to sow discord — have prompted the state to send in additional state troopers and install surveillance cameras around the city to reopen schools and government buildings.

Resident Josh Valle said the situation is unsettling, affecting his kids, community, and neighbors. With the bomb threats and influx, it’s something new every day, changing the dynamics of what used to be a quaint town.

The area around Springfield City Hall sat largely silent until a news conference with state and local officials prompted a brief swarm of activity. Local families are avoiding schools in the wake of earlier bomb threats, even though troopers stand guard in the Springfield City School District.

There are signs of hope amidst the chaos. “Home Sweet Springfield” tea towels adorn the window of Champion City Guide & Supply, where mugs and clothing items urge positivity and unity in the community.

A small group of kids set up a makeshift lemonade stand to distract themselves. Meanwhile, community figures like The Praying Cowboy show support and solidarity for Springfield.

A bipartisan group of mayors met to discuss resources to address the needs of the growing Haitian population and their language barrier, emphasizing the importance of shared humanity.

Years ago, Family Needs Inc. was recognized for its dedication to volunteerism, assisting Haitian immigrants for years. Pastor Mobley highlighted the lack of support from previous administrations until the current crisis put the community on the national stage.

Despite the turmoil, residents like the one downtown remain steadfast in their love for Springfield, refusing to let baseless rumors tarnish their home.