Horry County Pantry Offers Aid Amid Food Insecurity and Rising Costs

In Horry County, South Carolina, the issue of food insecurity has become increasingly pronounced due to a surge in food costs and the limitations of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), food prices have increased by over 5% in the past year. Meanwhile, nearly 17,000 individuals in Horry County, which makes up about 30% of the county’s population, are beneficiaries of SNAP. However, not all who are in need qualify for the program, and the assistance does not meet everybody’s needs.

The Challenging Reality

Tracy Gardner, the Executive Director of Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach, shared that approximately 39% of Horry County residents are experiencing issues related to food insecurity. Gardner emphasized that SNAP benefits, which typically range from $150 to $300 per month, are not sufficient to adequately feed a family. “That is not enough at all. I mean, you would really have to stretch that and eat the bare minimum,” Gardner said.

A Helping Hand’s efforts

Nonetheless, Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach is striving to fill the gaps by assisting those who do not qualify for SNAP. Yet, the issue of food insecurity is so severe that the organization’s food shelves are now running low. Gardner mentioned that many county residents, although employed full-time, do not earn enough to meet SNAP qualifications, thus increasing demand on food pantries.

Effects of Food Insecurity

The pervasive food insecurity dilemma has underscored the struggles of families living close to or below the poverty line. One example shared by Gardner involved a mother who, after losing her apartment, was living in her car with her two children, relying on non-cooked food provided by Helping Hand.

Call for Donations

Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach is in dire need of donations and support from the public to continue its service. They particularly request items like cereal, potatoes, jelly, and toiletries, which run short. Donations are accepted in person from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or online.

Community Involvement

In response to the escalating issue, Helping Hand will be conducting their second annual gala fundraiser themed “Support Through the Seasons” on September 19 at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club. The organization is seeking sponsorships, auction item donations, and attendees to take part.

Social Benefit Programs and Qualifications

To receive SNAP benefits, individuals must apply and meet certain criteria such as age, income, and assets to qualify. Although the program provides significant support, needing additional help from food pantries like Helping Hand is a common occurrence that marks the severe level of food insecurity in Horry County.

Source: HERE News Network