Summer of Hope: Phil’s Story

Oyster Grant Returns to Production Quickly after Equipment Failure

Many Outer Cape residents are like Phil – they patch together several part-time positions to earn a living. Phil’s primary source of income though has always been his family’s oyster grant. When faulty equipment temporarily slowed down operations, Phil was worried about the potential lost income. To make matters worse, he didn’t have the funds to cover the replacement costs. A fellow oysterman suggested that Phil reach out to some local agencies to seek support.

“Asking for help was new to me,” Phil said, “but I am really glad that I reached out.” Phil was pointed to the Lower Cape Outreach Council where he was able to secure the necessary funding for his gear. The program was able to partner with other local resources to put together a relief package that got Phil right back to work. “Earning a living on the Outer Cape can be really tough. When something goes wrong, it can be downright impossible.” Phil was thrilled that he was able to return to his primary job so quickly. “Making that first call was not easy, but I learned that sometimes it’s OK to ask for help.”

The Lower Cape Outreach Council is able to help with situations like Phil’s and also operates nine food pantries across the lower and outer cape to support neighbors experiencing food insecurity. Without year-round working residents like Phil, the Cape’s economy would collapse. We need and value them, and they deserve our support to work and thrive on Cape.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, LCOC may be able to help. Contact us at 508-240-0694 or email lcoc@lcoutreach.org.

In 2024, LCOC was able to provide $842,589 in Financial Assistance to nearly 1,000 households on the Lower and Outer Cape.

Donor support makes this all possible while strengthening the lives of so many.