Local organizations are helping combat holiday insecurity this winter season
Holiday Help
MARYLAND – The Holidays are meant to bring joy, but for some, it’s a reminder of what they don’t have. Local organizations have decided to become somewhat ‘Samaritans’ along the shore.
Adopt-a-Block
Winter break is here, and while some children are hoping for presents, others are hoping for pantry items. Danielle Roach, Executive director for Adopt-a-Block, a faith-based organization with a mission to reduce food insecurity. “Folks tend to be more generous, particularly around the holidays, like Christmas. But the need is there 24/7, 365.”
She says their market is open by appointment, and children are hungry during and after the holidays. That’s where they come in. “During the holiday breaks, a lot of the children. and their families are used to the kids being fed at school. So, we’re helping to fill those gaps… This is a time of year where families may feel like, they may feel less than because they can’t provide for their children. And for us to be able to have this available for them, to come in and get a week’s worth of food for their children.”
Santa’s Little Helpers
Resources for the Resourceful was started 5 years ago by co-founders Amari Jackson and Shymir Coakley. Amari Jackson says their event. “Santa’s Little Helpers” this is a way children on the shore can smile Christmas morning. “When we first started, it was during the pandemic, and I feel like there was more anxiety around the season financially… In the bigger cities they have a lot of things going on, and I just kind of want to make it known that small cities can do it too.”
As a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Shymir Coakley says he knows all too well about hard work and community service. “We’re just doing a small part of a big job. You know, where here. It’s multiple people who do toy drives, and multiple people who do things for the community. So, we are just literally, continuing to have the ball rolling, and just do our part.”
Resources
For many residents in Maryland, it will be a very Merry Christmas, and beyond. If you’re in need of presents, search Resources for the Resourceful on Instagram, fill out their google doc, and get your gifts! If you or someone you know may be hungry this holiday break, visit Adopt-a-Block’s website to get you belly full or donate to help those less fortunate.
