Community Heroes: How Catonsville Residents Unite to Combat Food Insecurity

On Bloomsbury Avenue in Catonsville, there’s a special place known as Catonsville Emergency Assistance (CEA). Each year, this nonprofit provides crucial support to about 700 people grappling with food insecurity and financial struggles.

Caitlin Kirby, the executive director, revealed that in their service area, one in three people faces food insecurity. As a mother, she understands that some children in her community might be going hungry, which makes the work of CEA deeply personal.

The organization caters to a wide area, stretching from Howard County in the west to Baltimore City in the east, and from Wilkens Avenue in the south to Security Boulevard in the north. While about 90% of CEA’s efforts focus on providing food, they also assist with utilities and help prevent evictions, addressing multiple aspects of hardship.

Kirby finds the community aspect of their services vital. "We try to make their experience here feel like family," she says, emphasizing the importance of connection.

CEA has a heartwarming origin story that dates back to 1984 when Alice Smart started the initiative in her basement. The nonprofit became official with the help of local churches and has been serving the community for nearly 40 years. They have been in their current location since 1996, with plans to build a more accessible facility in the future.

Wilma Barner, a resident of Catonsville, reflects on her experiences with CEA, saying, “They’ve been a beacon of help when I needed it.” She appreciates the friendly atmosphere, which makes visits to the center joyful.

Instead of calling those they assist “clients,” CEA refers to them as “neighbors.” This choice highlights their community-centered approach. Kirby notes, “The interesting thing about food insecurity is you don’t know when someone else is struggling.”

People in need can schedule monthly appointments to receive a week’s supply of food. CEA depends on food and monetary donations from the community to keep its programs running. Kirby frequently encourages supporters to check their “What We Need Wednesdays” posts on social media for current needs.

According to a recent report by Feeding America, over 38 million Americans faced hunger in 2021, a number that continues to highlight the importance of organizations like CEA. As communities work together to tackle this issue, the role of local nonprofits becomes even more significant.

For more information about Catonsville Emergency Assistance, you can visit their Facebook page. The ongoing efforts to support those in need show that community solidarity can make a real difference in people’s lives.

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