Editor’s Note: During the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted many aspects of our community. Throughout March, staff writers Gina G. Scala, Monique Demopoulos and David Biggy explore the depths of those changes within Southern Ocean County and what the future may hold for the area.

Some may believe there’s not much of a homelessness or hunger crisis in Southern Ocean County. Unfortunately, it’s a well-kept secret.

“Nobody would think, driving through Manahawkin or on Long Beach Island, that hunger is a problem around here,” said…