An Update From SPAN

As I am writing this, I am thinking of my strong and incredibly kind friend who just passed away from cancer. Even at times when she was in pain or in the hospital, she was thinking of others. Her kind heart, smile and thoughtfulness made a deep impression on me and many others. I am blessed that she was part of my life and as I sit here, I am grateful for her and all the other bright points of love and light in our lives.

One of the aspects I love about working at SPAN is that I regularly see so many examples of love, positivity and kindness.

Our shelves are filled by local community members and neighborhood groups — such as Rugby Hall, Belleview, Ivy Hall, Glen Oban, Cape Arthur pool and the Greater Severna Park Mother’s Club — that do food collections for SPAN. Those who contribute financially make it possible for us to have helped over 730 families last year who were facing evictions, utility turn-offs and medical expenses. I am surrounded daily by wonderful examples of people donating their time, such as our amazing volunteers, who contribute so much to make what we do possible, to many of our clients who share their gratitude and strength as they go through difficult times. I see many examples of our clients, volunteers and other community members looking out for their neighbor, whether giving them a ride, or lending a hand in whatever way they can.

I am blessed that I spend my days surrounded by many acts of kindness. That love and brightness, that we can all be part of, adds so much to our lives.

Food can always be donated to our bins in the Severna Park Community Center and Severna Park Library or directly at our building. Our focus for food donations this month is basics such as rice, potatoes, and canned meat or fish. Basic toiletries such as shampoo, deodorant and toothpaste are also requested items that we need.

SPAN appreciates food donations; it is what makes it possible for us to help others. Additionally, we have several upcoming events that are great opportunities to contribute. On November 12, a food drive at our SPAN location from 2:00pm-5:00pm will include s’mores and hot chocolate to enjoy.

We have many local businesses sponsoring our 11th Stride for SPAN Turkey Trot 5k race and 1-mile fun walk. It is a fun community event that will be held November 4 at Kinder Farm Park. Registration is available at register.chronotrack.com/r/75552. If you are interested in sponsoring or volunteering at the event, please contact us.

This is the time of year for one of SPAN’s wonderful traditions — our Holiday Caring program. It is a program where community members and groups sign up to provide clients with holiday meals and Christmas gifts for children. Many families worry about Thanksgiving and Christmas because they can’t afford a large meal and gifts for their children. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a car accident, illness or job layoff, can throw family budgets into crisis mode. Please consider becoming a sponsor. For more information, email us at spanhelps@yahoo.com or call 410-647-0889.

Thank you so much for helping us help others. Together we are making a difference.

SPAN (Serving People Across Neighborhoods) is an independent nonprofit food pantry and emergency services provider that has been helping local families with eviction prevention, utility turnoffs, medical/prescription bills, and food since 1990. SPAN serves 14 zip codes in Anne Arundel County. SPAN is located behind Our Shepherd Lutheran Church at 400 Benfield Road in Severna Park. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 10:00am-1:30pm. For more information, 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 SPAN’s building. Please “like” SPAN on Facebook!