Helping feed Rockville Centre families in a crisis, while chasing a dream

During a surely devastating time for many, Sharon Sheppard, assistant director of Rockville Centre’s Martin Luther King, Jr., Center, is rising to the occasion by feeding families in need in the village.

And, at the same time, Sheppard is chasing her dream of becoming a nurse.

“I’m going to be 53,” she said, “and I always tell the kids here that they have to follow their dream, and nothing is impossible. I have to show them and act upon it.”

Sheppard worked as a nurse in the past, but then stopped to help take care of her nephew and to volunteer at the MLK Center, where she has now worked full-time for about 12 years.

Her medical licenses have since expired, and she thought it would be best to “start all over,” she said. Now, once a week, she takes an online course, part of a program to earn her nursing degree in two and a half years.

“I’m at the time of my life where it’s the right decision,” said, noting that she wishes to work in hospice care or pediatrics.

Meanwhile, Sheppard also coordinates with numerous community members for the food program she’s running every Friday at the MLK Center. Residents stop by Friday mornings to take whatever their family may need to get through that week — groceries, diapers, baby formula. The program supports about 20 to 30 village families per week, Sheppard said.

“It’s nothing to be ashamed about,” she added. “If it’s here and you need it, you’re more than welcome to take it. Just take only what you need, what you’re going to use. It’s been going great.”

She noted that many seeking food assistance have lost jobs due to the pandemic — some are teacher aides, for example — and are waiting on unemployment checks. If individuals need help applying for financial assistance, “that’s what I’m here for,” Sheppard said.

Many residents are donating, as well as local eateries, such as Monaghan’s and Park Avenue Deli, and organizations, such as RaisingVoicesUSA and the Anti-Racism Project. Deputy Mayor Kathy Baxley is also supporting the effort. Sheppard expressed gratitude to all those who have helped make the food program possible.

“It’s always been my passion to help people, whether they are well or sick, it’s just a natural instinct for me,” she said. “If I can help these families, I can rest that night.”