Gulf Coast Community Ministries holds food drive to assist local families

One local nonprofit organization handed out food in Gulfport to help combat food insecurity for hundreds of families.

There was a ton of food distributed Wednesday morning at the Gulf Coast Community Ministries to assist the community with a food pantry drive. Executive Director Geremy Merritt said, “Today, we’re trying to serve 200 families, maybe a little over, because we got several 100 pounds of food here. We have protein, we have vegetables, we have fruit. We got some dry goods as well and we have some milk. We’re basically just trying to help out the community when they come through. We want to pass out those resources to them.”

The organization hosts a food distribution event like this one each year, just before the hot summer months.

Officials say it also helps promote healthier eating habits in our local communities. Gulfport resident Teresa Davis said, “They do a lot here. They give clothing. I’ve seen homeless people come in here and get tents. They didn’t even have any shelter. They do have a medical thing they do on certain days. It’s just very helpful. It’ll get me through a couple of days. It’s a little less I have to buy because sometimes you’re struggling to make ends meet. You might not have enough to buy for the whole month.”

Volunteers say the food drive is one piece of the puzzle in helping to carry on the center’s ministry of providing a helping hand in many different ways. Volunteer Alan Emroch said, “Jesus is the one that brings me here. Jesus is the one that guided me here and he brings me here, I mean, I’m just happy to be here to help.”

Pass Christian resident Ervin Bradley said, “Well you know, anything, a helping hand can help, can do anything to make someone’s life much better. It’s great and appreciative and thankful.”

Along with helping to solve the community’s food needs, GCCM offers clinical assistance for uninsured adults and spiritual support.

The center is open twice a week from 9:30-11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call 228-868-8202 for more information.