by Emily Smith
In Myrtle Beach alone, roughly 24% of the population rests under the poverty line according to data collected by the Census Bureau in 2017. Earlier this year, information from the Eastern Carolina Homelessness Organization, or ECHO, estimated that there are over 1,000 homeless people in Myrtle Beach.
Wanting to share your blessings is understandable, and there are plenty of ways to offer help and spread kindness in our neck of the woods, from monetary donations to preparing meals.
The Community Kitchen of Myrtle Beach has been a nonprofit organization providing meals to the underprivileged and hungry population for over twenty-seven years. Located at 1411 Mr. Joe White Avenue, the kitchen is open Monday through Friday, plus holidays, to provide breakfast and lunch to anyone who needs a meal.
Every month, the organization updates their current needs and is always looking for more volunteers.Traditional Thanksgiving meals will be provided on November 28, but assistance is always needed, no matter what time of year it is. To learn more about the program and how to help, visit www.communitykitchenmb.org or call 843-444-9383.
In downtown Conway, The Shepherd’s Table has served an increasing amount of hungry guests in need throughout the years. Nestled at the corner of Powell St. and Gamecock Ave, this nonprofit got its start in 2007, and has since supplied lunch and dinner to tens of thousands.
Beyond simply distributing food, The Shepherd’s Table has programs to put together weekend bags and personal hygiene kits. This is especially important during hurricane season and winter, and the team is always accepting donations and volunteers. Call 843-488-3663 for more information, or visit them online at www.shepherdstable.com.
Though their headquarters is in Charleston, the Lowcountry Food Bank runs programs and drives up and down the coast. The organization has made it easy for individuals and businesses to host drives and fundraisers.
Volunteers are needed not just for prepping and coordinating, but also for educational purposes and administrative support. Their local office is situated at 4716 Northgate Blvd in Myrtle Beach, and can be reached at 843-488-0341. Their website, www.lowcountryfoodbank.com, offers more information about what this nonprofit does and needs.
For over thirty years, Churches Assisting People in Conway has been working to make sure no family or person is overlooked in times of need, particularly emergencies. Made up of over two dozen churches in the Grand Strand area, the union is able to pool resources and spread their reach.
Even if you aren’t a member of the churches listed on www.capconway.com, there are still ways to be involved to support struggling members of our community. Their office is at 307 Wright Blvd, and the CAP phone number is 843-488-2277.
These are just a few of the local organizations in our immediate surroundings. Larger, nationwide programs also function here, including but not limited to Meals on Wheels, the Salvation Army, and American Red Cross.
Although giving and gratitude are at the forefront of everyone’s mind this month, members of our community struggle each day throughout the year.
Whether you are willing to offer your time, money, or necessities, there are an abundance of ways to share your blessings and allow someone else to have the opportunity to give thanks.
