Local parish in need of non-perishables for less fortunate
August Food Drive
MARYLAND – Summer is winding down but food cost are still going up, and that can be a challenge for individuals who struggle with food security. Though many people donate, organizers say they need more help, and a local church is calling on the community to step in.
Whether it’s peaches or peas, this community parish is ensuring their community doesn’t perish. St. Paul’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church has been in existence since 1878. Their mission is “Feeding People: Body, Soul, and Spirit,” which they do through various programs, worship services, and the Shepherd’s Crook Parish. They say they make an effort to reach out to the Latino community, the un-housed community, and other marginalized groups. The pantry, however, is one of their main attractions.
“To some people, it’s the only meal they have during the day,” And some, only eat when the shepherd’s crook parish is open. Grocery prices are higher than they’ve ever been according to team leader Debra Andrew. She says that if they are going to be able to serve the community, they need all the help they can get. “We need canned fruits, canned vegetables, we do a lot of black beans, red beans, again, protein in a can that’s easy. If possible, with flip tops, because a number of people, they don’t have homes, they don’t have can openers.”
They are currently doing their 3rd annual August food drive, where each week, they ask for something different. August 12th – 18th is canned fruits and vegetables, and August 19th-25th is toilet paper and Amour Beef Stew. Parish Administrator, Jody Farley says many in the community rely on their services. “Right now, we’re feeding the meal to about 100 to 125 from the pantry we’re feeding about 60-70… Whether it’s a casserole, whether it’s a sandwich, whether it’s a bowl of soup, hot dog, we have some kind of meal every day that we’re open.” Farley says they are trying to keep up with the need, but they really need businesses and organizations to step in. “We’ve gotten about 16,000 in donations, but with spending $1,000 a week, plus, sometimes more than $1,000 it doesn’t take us all the way through the year.”
One of their guests Belinda Olszewski has been coming to the Crook for 5 years and has a word for those who may be too afraid to ask for help. “People are very kind and will take them in wholeheartedly, and you know, don’t be ashamed of it, just come. and they’ll give you all the help that you could get.” Team Leader Andrew says that no matter what, they will server everyone who comes through their doors. “We want people to know if they have a need please come, we’ll figure out a way to make it work, we don’t want anyone to go hungry.”
Week Four of the food drive is August 26th-31st, and the parish is asking for Hormel Compleats meals, such as Salisbury Steak, Meatloaf, Roast Beef, Chicken and Turkey options. Volunteers say that Peanut Butter is a favorite at the parish, and if you have a jar to spare, the residents would really appreciate it! If you would like to donate, please visit their website!
