After thirteen years as executive director of the Talbot County Hunger Coalition, Catherine Poe will retire at the end of the year, closing a chapter that transformed a loose network of food pantries into one of the county’s most effective collaborations. In a conversation with the Spy, she reflects on the challenges, surprises, and lessons of addressing hunger in one of Maryland’s wealthiest counties.
When Catherine arrived, her first priority was bringing together organizations that had largely worked independently. Rather than telling them how to operate, she volunteered at each pantry, learning how they worked and earning their trust. “It took about three years to be accepted,” she says. Today, the coalition includes food pantries, schools, libraries, social service agencies, and other nonprofits working together to help families in need.
One of her biggest revelations was that hunger is increasingly a problem of the working poor. Many clients have jobs but earn wages that simply do not cover the cost of living in Talbot County. “We certainly should not have the problem we have here in a very wealthy county,” she says.
Even so, Catherine leaves optimistic. She credits the volunteers who continued serving families throughout the pandemic, along with the churches and community organizations that have sustained the coalition for more than a decade. “It’s been a great ride,” she says. “I’ve learned so much about human nature.”
This video is approximately six minutes in length. For more information about the Talbot County Hunger Coalition please go here.
3 Responses
Congratulations on your much needed retirement from active “duty”, although I doubt that Catherine will stay still for much longer. I’ve worked with Catherine on many activities and organizations. Her energy seems endless and she has made so many contributions in improving lives of all who’ve benefited from knowing her.
As she retires, Catherine leaves very large shoes to fill, if it could even happen.
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Good luck on the next chapter of your life!
This is a wonderful interview with Catherine.
What especially stands out to me, besides her realization of the nature and extent of hunger in Talbot County, is her approach to it. First, she learned how existing groups accomplished their goals by working with them, learning the differences among them, and gradually establishing trust with them. Then, she set out to organize them and bring in partners. As a result, we have all benefited.
I’ve known Catherine for a long time and never cease to be amazed by her energy and effectiveness. She’s made Talbot County a far better place for all of us. Thank you, Catherine!