Summary of Services
- Support for residents of the Spuds, Elkton, and Armstrong communities
- Annual Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway and community events
- Youth programs, including children’s trips and monthly bike rides
- Holiday celebrations, including Thanksgiving meals and Christmas gift baskets
- Clothing closet with new and gently used garments
- Weekly food pantry (open Fridays, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m)
- SNAP application assistance with trained staff and volunteers
- Outreach and support for Haiti
- Access to cultural and community events
Acknowledging and Addressing Community Challenges
Since its founding in 2013, the SEA Community Help Resource Center has been committed to supporting residents of the Spuds, Elkton, and Armstrong communities. Understanding that individuals and families face a wide range of unique challenges, the center offers an array of services, including an Annual Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway, children’s trips and bike rides, holiday celebrations, baskets and gifts for kids, outreach and support for Haiti, access to a food pantry and clothes closet, SNAP application assistance, and much more.
Programs and Events for Youth and Families
Each August, the Back-to-School Initiative helps students start the year with confidence. Backpacks filled with school supplies are distributed, and community events are held to encourage educational engagement. These gatherings bring students, parents, and neighbors together, reinforcing the belief that learning is a community-wide effort.
In partnership with local cycling clubs, the SEA Community Help Resource Center hosts monthly bike rides for all ages and skill levels. These outings take participants through scenic neighborhoods and coastal paths, promoting fitness and outdoor enjoyment.
Trained staff and volunteers guide residents through every step of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application process, which assists with paperwork, answering questions, and ensuring eligible households can quickly access healthy food.
Clothing and Food Pantries
The clothing closet provides gently used and new garments for all ages, ensuring families have appropriate attire for work, school, and daily life. The food pantry offers healthy options, helping to reduce hunger and provide stability. The food pantry is open every Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Holiday Meals and Gift Baskets
The SEA Community Help Resource Center ensures that the holiday season is a time of joy for every family. A hearty, homemade Thanksgiving dinner is served for the community, and complete turkey dinners are distributed for families to enjoy at home. During Christmas, volunteers prepare baskets filled with pantry staples and holiday treats.
For many, these gestures transform what could be a difficult season into one filled with warmth and connection.
Celebrating Community and Culture
The “Celebration of a Giant” parade honors the extraordinary leadership of President Murray, whose vision and service have shaped the SEA Community Help Resource Center and touched countless lives. Streets come alive with marching bands, decorated floats, and the spirit of a community.
Held on the first Saturday in December, the Gullah Geechee Festival celebrates the rich heritage of the Gullah Geechee people, who are descendants of enslaved Africans who settled in the Lowcountry. Through music, storytelling, art, and cuisine, the festival honors the resilience and traditions of this vibrant culture.