Among the many tough urban neighborhoods of West Baltimore is a small community called Sandtown. Since the race riots of the 60s, it has struggled to regain economic stability. Most stores within the town’s 15-block radius are owned and operated by individuals living outside the community. Goods are expensive, of poor quality, and separated from customers by a thick barrier of bulletproof Plexiglas. Nearly all the money spent there doesn’t stay, and year after year, Sandtown residents face the discouragement of low income, high unemployment, and rising crime. 

Despite its many challenges, Sandtown radiates a life built on generations of loving and caring for each other, and a strong determination to find its way back. Recently, it’s become the home to one of the finest, most sought-after elementary/middle schools in Baltimore. The community also regularly celebrates the revitalization efforts of an urban housing renewal and ownership program started by New Song Ministries fifteen years ago. The building and opening of Gerry’s Goods is a significant part of that bold effort… to restore hope and dignity to the community of Sandtown. Stores of Hope tells that story.