I am a resident of Pocomoke City, Maryland, and I have witnessed firsthand the struggles our community faces when it comes to accessing essential resources. Our town, often overlooked, is home to a significant number of residents living in poverty. Transportation is a luxury many cannot afford, making it incredibly challenging to reach facilities located far from our daily lives. Additionally, a youth-focused life center should be in a location that youth can attend programs without the need for additional transportation that may not be available, or too expensive.
Given this context, the proposal to establish the new Family Life Center in downtown Pocomoke City concerns me deeply. While the intentions behind this initiative are noble, its location fails to consider the accessibility challenges faced by our residents, especially those with limited transportation options. A downtown location may not serve the interests of the entire community, particularly those who live on the periphery or in more remote parts of our city.
Transportation barriers can prevent residents from benefiting from a Family Life Center that is meant to serve as a hub for growth, learning, and support. It is vital for the Family Life Center to be situated in a location that is central and accessible to everyone—not just those who live nearby or have access to personal vehicles. A more centralized location would ensure equal opportunity for all residents to engage in the center’s offerings and cultivate a sense of community inclusion.
I propose that the City immediately reconsider the current plans and select a location more central for all Pocomoke City residents. Practical alternatives could include surveying residents to identify potential sites that are both available and geographically central. Several candidates sites, such as partnering with the Board of Education to use long-underutilized space or taking advantage of planned redevelopment areas, could be an alternative.
This decision will shape our community for years to come. Please join me in urging the decision-makers to reevaluate the location of the Family Life Center. Sign this petition to help make our community more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
If you agree, please sign and share the Change.org petition: https://c.org/RtdTDQpWyC
