How to Help Catonsville Emergency Assistance This Fall
28 October 2026
Catonsville Emergency Assistance, or CEA, is a small local nonprofit that helps neighbors in the greater Catonsville area with emergency food, BGE bill help, eviction prevention and referrals. While its new food distribution center is being built, food donations go to Immanuel UCC at 1905 Edmondson Avenue, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Here is how to help as the holidays get closer.
One of the things I love most about this part of Baltimore County is how neighbors show up for each other. CEA's motto says it best: neighbors helping neighbors.
What does Catonsville Emergency Assistance do?
According to CEA's website, the group provides emergency food, utility cut-off prevention, eviction prevention assistance and referrals to other services. It has relied on volunteers since it began in 1984.
| CEA's annual impact | Number |
|---|---|
| People served | 685 people in 294 households |
| Food provided | More than 106,000 pounds |
| Volunteers | 100 volunteers |
| Volunteer time | About 4,000 hours |
Where do I drop off food donations right now?
CEA's donate food page says that while the new site is under construction, all food donations go to Immanuel UCC, 1905 Edmondson Avenue in Catonsville, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Park in the back lot, ring the doorbell at the back door in the middle of the building, and volunteers will roll carts out to your car.
CEA accepts in-date, non-perishable food only. If you need another time, call CEA at 410-747-4357 for an appointment.
What food does CEA need most?
These are the most commonly needed items on CEA's list:
- Boxes of cereal
- Jelly
- Dry soup, like ramen
- Rice in small boxes or bags
- Baking mixes for cake, brownies, muffins or pancakes
- Oatmeal
- Canned meals, stew or chili
- Spaghetti sauce and pasta
- Pasta and rice side dishes
- Canned tuna, chicken, ham or other protein
If you would rather give money, CEA has an online donation page.
What is happening with CEA's new building?
CEA's Spring/Summer 2026 newsletter shared that the old food pantry at 25 Bloomsbury Avenue was being taken down so a new one-story distribution center could be built behind the 23 Bloomsbury Avenue building. The 23 Bloomsbury Avenue address is an administrative office only, so please do not drop food there.
During construction, CEA says it is not taking new volunteer applications. If your school, office or church wants to hold a food drive, email CEA first at admin@catonsvillehelp.org so it can plan to receive your donation.
Who can get help from CEA?
CEA serves western Baltimore County within the service area described on its website, which runs from the Baltimore City line out to the Patapsco River. Income-eligible households in that area can register for supplemental groceries once a month, and CEA may be able to help with a BGE bill or rent.
Not sure if your address is in the area? The service area page has a map, or you can call 410-747-HELP.
What does this mean for neighbors and people moving here?
Groups like CEA are a big part of why this area feels like a true hometown. If you are new, giving a bag of groceries is a lovely way to connect with your community.
You might also enjoy my guide to the Arbutus Senior Center, the Baltimore County Veterans Day celebration and my Moving to Arbutus guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I drop off food for Catonsville Emergency Assistance?
Bring food to Immanuel UCC at 1905 Edmondson Avenue in Catonsville, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 410-747-4357 if you need another time.
What food does CEA need most?
Cereal, jelly, dry soup, rice, baking mixes, oatmeal and canned meals are all on the list. Spaghetti sauce, pasta, side dishes and canned protein are needed too.
Can I volunteer with CEA right now?
CEA says it is not taking new volunteer applications while its new building is under construction. Check its volunteer page for updates.
Can my group hold a food drive for CEA?
Yes, but email admin@catonsvillehelp.org before you pick a date. That way CEA can plan to receive and weigh your donation.
Who can get food help from CEA?
Income-eligible households in CEA's western Baltimore County service area can register for groceries once a month. Call 410-747-HELP to ask about eligibility.
Disclaimer: This post is based on information from the Catonsville Emergency Assistance website, checked on 28 October 2026. Hours and needs can change, so please call CEA at 410-747-4357 before you drop off donations.
Want to Get to Know Your New Community?
I love helping people find their place here, from the right home to the groups that make this area special. Call or text me at 443-421-6855.
Join our Discovering Arbutus Facebook group
for local news and events