Since 2010 the Beaches Watch Give Back Award recognizes an organization that has a substantial impact on the beaches communities. This year, Beaches Watch presented the Give Back donation to the Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry (BEAM).
Established in 1985, BEAM provides rent, utility, food assistance and case management services for residents or workers within the beaches area communities, which includes Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach, Mayport, San Pablo and Ponte Vedra Beach. BEAM will use the funds from the Give Back Award to support the food assistance efforts. According to the executive director, “BEAM operates the only beaches area food distribution center and was responsible for distributing more than 1.1 million pounds of food to beaches area families last year. We operate two food pantries, one in Mayport and one in Jax. Beach, that provide the client choice approach where clients can shop for groceries with a trained volunteer.”
“As we approach the season of giving, Beaches Watch is proud to present our ‘Give Back’ donation to a worthy nonprofit organization at the beach to show our appreciation for all they are doing to enhance the quality of life for our beaches citizens,” said Beaches Watch President Maria Mark.
Pictured (left to right): Maria Mark (Beaches Watch President), Dr. Randy Hayes (BEAM volunteer), Lori Richards (BEAM Executive Director), and Mary Ellen Waugh (BEAM Director of Food Services).