Ocean City looks for ways to help homeless community

Ocean City city leaders say they have several people living on the streets and they'd like to do something about it.

The tourism town is a place where many come to unwind or enjoy the ocean from their vacation homes, but there's another segment of the population that has no home at all. 

City leaders, like Mayor Rich Meehan are aware that there's a lingering problem and are asking the community to come together to help. 

"We have a homeless population somewhere around 10 and 15. It changes a little not with the season. You know that's an unfortunate situation for some of these individuals." 

While there is no official tally of the homeless, officials say its concerning and gets larger in the summer months. 

Bruce Young runs a local pantry at St. Paul's by the sea and says he works to fill in the gap every day. 

"We're serving the under-served the working poor and retired people that have limited income."

Many living on the streets spend their days and nights at the Caroline Street restroom building here on the boardwalk.

One local, who goes by "Ike", says the city is missing the mark by addressing the issue. 

"The joke is that you will not starve to death in Ocean City, but you may freeze to death cause there's not enough housing." 

City leaders say they are working to change that by working with local non-profits and relying on police to refer the homeless to programs. 

Jerry is a member of the homeless community and says there are many people in the same boat as him. 

He's just grateful that there are some programs in place to help. 

"There's more than 10 out there believe me. At least you can go different places. You can get clothes you can get fed."

There are two shelters in West Ocean City and a few churches within the city limits that will open their doors when weather conditions get too cold. 

Organizers at Shepherd's Crook food pantry say they've spent about $24,000 so far this year on food.