St. Paul’s asking local residents for donations

By Remy Andersen Staff Writer

(July 21, 2023) The Shepherd’s Crook Food Pantry, the primary outreach of St. Paul’s By-The-Sea Episcopal Church, is experiencing a food shortage because of increased costs and is asking for financial help from area residents, businesses and organizations.

Founded in 2002, the food pantry helps feed the homeless and local residents who don’t have enough to eat.

“In general, we have noticed an increase in patrons to the Crook, but the summer months also bring an influx of student workers in need,” said Pastor Jill Williams. “As of this week, the Crook is feeding over 100 clients a day. That is over double the amount of people in months earlier this year.”

Nancy Knotts, a volunteer of the food pantry since 2017, also noted how a significant increase in international J1 arrivals has affected the pantry. “The summer months have been especially a challenge due to the influx of students needing to utilize the pantry to supplement their diet while in Ocean City,” Knotts said.

“The amount served triples in the summer so the amount spent to buy food increases accordingly. Summer is always the busiest time for the pantry but due to inflation, the amount that we are spending this year has never been higher.”

The Shepherd’s Crook, at 302 N. Baltimore Avenue, is open from 10 a.m. to noon on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. During the off season, the Crook is also open on Saturdays. During its operational hours, The Shepherd’s Crook takes in donations such as produce, canned and dry goods. The Crook gives out pantry items and fresh food while also providing a bagged lunch. Visitors are welcome to sit down and relax with a beverage and enjoy being surrounded by members of their community.

Monetary donations can be sent via check to the St. Paul’s By-The-Sea address, with special designation that it is for the Crook. Cash is also accepted during hours of operation. “Donations are made through individuals, organ- izations, other churches, and businesses in Ocean City and the surrounding community,” Knotts said.

“As a church, we are compelled by the gospel to help the least among us, the hungry, the needy,” said Williams. “We hope that this Ocean City community that we love so much will join us as we work to bring dignity to the least among us.”

St. Paul’s By-The-Sea is located at 302 North Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842.