Almost A Billion Are Hungry Worldwide — Some Might Be Your Neighbors

Ellen Kinsella

For many people, it’s unfathomable to learn there are individuals in Severna Park who are hungry because they cannot afford food. But at SPAN, we see them every day.

Consider this: The typical amount of time it takes to find a new job after being laid off is four to six months. The typical American family can live off its savings for three months until going broke. You don’t have to be a mathematician to see how a job layoff can throw a family into crisis. Job layoffs are a common reason people come to SPAN for assistance, but there are also many other causes: illness, car accidents, domestic abuse situations, and more. At SPAN, we help families through their crises, and give them food. (Note: financial assistance is given only once per year, and food is given once per month.)

SPAN is about more than assistance, however. It is the merger of local businesses, churches, civic organizations, philanthropists and volunteers, all united in a common cause – to improve the lives of our neighbors in need. We have been doing this since 1990 and are stronger than ever! We see the best of the best, whether it’s a $25 donation from a child’s lemonade stand, a food drive from a scout troop, or a bushel of tomatoes from a local resident’s garden. SPAN is the epitome of the “Give Local” spirit.

Did you see us at the recent Shop Local Fun Festival? We collected donations of food, school supplies and cash, and in exchange, gave out free tickets for the photo booth. Thanks to all who supported us, especially WNAV, which gave us a live, on-air interview!

Another exciting function that took place recently was a free haircut/backpack event, organized by Theresa Kurtz, realtor at Re/Max One. Fabu’ Salon & Spa donated a Monday — a day the salon is usually closed — to give free haircuts to 48 children whose names SPAN provided. These kids, who probably would not have been able to afford a haircut, were treated like royalty by the eight stylists who donated their time. Each child was given a free backpack filled with school supplies, which had been collected throughout the community prior to the event.

Please keep your eyes open for news about our upcoming 5K/1-mile Turkey Trot on November 11 at Kinder Farm Park, and news about our Holiday Caring program. Follow us on Facebook, and visit www.spanhelps.org. Our current pantry needs are syrup, jelly, laundry detergent, deodorant and shampoo.

SPAN (Serving People Across Neighborhoods) is a faith-based nonprofit food pantry and emergency services provider that has been helping local families with eviction prevention, utility turnoffs, prescription needs and food since 1990. SPAN serves Severna Park, Millersville, Arnold, Broadneck and other surrounding areas. SPAN is located behind Our Shepherd Lutheran Church at 400 Benfield Road. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 10:00am-1:30pm. Call 410-647-0889, email spanhelps@yahoo.com or visit www.spanhelps.org. Financial donations may be made through the website. Food donations may be dropped off 24/7 using the storage bin behind the building.