Sadly, while this is not a new situation, people all over the world continue to fall into tougher and tougher situations. Everything from famine, wars, and poverty on many levels just keeps coming.
Living in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia), the most recent hit that has many people walking yet another razor thin line, is because of the masses of federal workers on furlough, families dealing with layoffs, and folks trying to stretch one paycheck (or no paycheck) too far with the rising cost of everything. If that’s you, or someone you know, you’re not alone.
You’re not invisible, and there are places to turn
Hardworking federal workers, contractors, and service workers make up a good portion of the economy in my area. In my own home, my husband has been deemed an essential employee. We’re okay, but many, many others are not. And with no clear end to the shutdown, or prices of goods falling, if you’re without a paycheck and worried about bills and your next meal, please know you’re seen.
Let people know
Friends, family, and neighbors can’t help if they don’t know. And while asking for help might feel like the hardest step to take, it’s a completely normal thing to say and no one is oblivious as to why. So please, take a breath and reach out.
Food assistance in the DMV
For those in the DMV, if you’re figuring out how to keep food on the table or cover some essentials, the region has solid options, and I’m adding the links to the ones I know of below. Some come from social media posts of content creators or links shared with me. Some of the links/sites update often — so check back!
A few places offering food assistance (in no particular order):
- Capital Area Food Bank
- DMV Free Events (Facebook)
- Bread for the City
- Howard County Food Resources
- Maryland Food Bank
- Capital Area Food Bank Assistance
- Healthy St. Mary’s – Food Security
- End Hunger Calvert
- Catholic Charities SoMD Food Bank
- 211 Maryland
Can you make a food donation?
If you’re in a position to help your friends, neighbors, or stranger-neighbors, please do. You can make your own purchases and deliver to local or nearby food pantries.
Side note: you might want to call ahead to see what goods they need or if they are looking for non-perishable items.
Can’t or you’re unable to shop? No worries. Many food banks and foundations also take online cash donations. Every bit helps.
Don’t go it alone
If this is or has been your reality right now — take heart. You’re not forgotten, and you don’t have to go it alone. There are people, programs, and communities ready to help. Reach out, use them, and ask for what you need.
Keep showing up for yourself. Make the best of resources and the spirit of good and giving people, communities, and businesses around you. Take this one step at a time.
We’re all in this together and together, we’ll get through it.
Know another food resource or community program? Add it below so someone who needs it can find it. Someone out there is looking for exactly that link, and every share helps someone eat tonight. ❤️
