SHORE UP, Inc., the community action agency serving the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland, has released the findings of its 2024 Community Needs Assessment, highlighting key challenges and opportunities within our community. The comprehensive report identifies critical areas requiring attention to improve the quality of life for residents across SHORE UP’s service area, which consists of Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worcester counties in Maryland.
The assessment reveals significant disparities in economic stability, housing, food security, and access to education and healthcare. Key findings include:
- Poverty and Economic Inequities: Approximately 11.5% of the service area’s population lives below the poverty line, with certain communities, such as Cambridge in Dorchester County and Crisfield in Somerset County, experiencing poverty rates of 25% and 32%, respectively. The unemployment rate in the region has dropped to 2.4% overall, but underemployment remains a significant concern, affecting over 11,000 workers.
- Housing Instability: Safe and affordable housing remains a critical need, with 31% of homes in the service area having at least one substandard condition. Nearly 70% of community survey respondents identified a major need for increased affordable housing, homelessness assistance services, and rental and utilities assistance.
- Food Insecurity: Over 40,000 low-income individuals in the service area experience food insecurity, with some counties having more than 20% of the low-income population living in areas with limited access to nutritious food. The findings also reveal racial and socioeconomic disparities in food access, with Black/African American and Hispanic residents facing higher levels of food insecurity.
- Educational Inequities: The assessment shows disparities in educational outcomes, particularly among children of color. Schools in lower-income neighborhoods often lack adequate resources, impacting the future opportunities of many children and young adults. The data highlights the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.
- Healthcare Access: Limited access to healthcare services, particularly for low-income residents and people using public health insurance, continues to be a significant barrier. A lack of transportation and long wait times for medical appointments were among the top concerns raised by community members.
“Our 2024 Community Needs Assessment provides an in-depth look at the conditions affecting our most vulnerable populations,” said Maria Morris, Chief Operating Officer of SHORE UP, Inc. “By understanding these challenges, we can better allocate our resources, advocate for necessary policy changes, and collaborate with our partners to create meaningful, long-term improvements in our communities.”
SHORE UP, Inc. plans to use the assessment findings to inform its strategic planning and program development. The organization will continue to engage with community members, local partners, and stakeholders to address these critical needs and promote equity and opportunity throughout the region.
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