Tips to Help You Cope

Stress Awareness Month has been recognized every April since 1992. This year, it seems particularly important. Learning to cope with our stress and finding healthy ways to deal with these situations can go a long way in living a healthy and positive life. Long-term stress can prove to be more than just a mental issue.

We all experience stress, yet we experience it in different ways. For that reason, there is no single definition for stress, but the American Institute of Stress states the most common explanation is a “physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension.”

Common issues related to stress:

1. Headaches
2. Stomach disorders
3. Anxiety/Depression
4. Stroke 
5. Heart Disease

Tips for Coping with Stress

• Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep, give yourself a break if you feel stressed.
• Discuss your problems. Talk with a parent, friend, or another trusted source.
• Avoid drugs and alcohol. Brain research now indicates that people exposed to stress are more likely to abuse alcohol or other drugs, or to relapse into drug addiction.
• Recognize when you need more help. Know when to talk to a psychologist, social worker, or counselor if things continue.

Anxiety can affect many aspects of your mental health and well-being. The next time you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious, watch this video and try these tips: https://www.healthlink.com/member/hltv?v=4

Useful Links:

1. https://www.healthlink.com/soi/wellness
2. https://www.cdc.gov/mental-health/living-with/index.html
3. https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:9ce93c92-f2ec-4c3c-92f0-7944fcc74399
4. https://www.humana.com/health-and-well-being/learn-how-to-manage-stress-and-life-changes

Illinois Department of Central Management Services

Partnering

to Support ALICE Families in Crisis

United Way of Washington County is proud to partner with Reach of Washington County to deliver timely support through the ALICE Urgent Needs Grant, helping hardworking households facing immediate financial challenges.

ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families often live paycheck to paycheck—earning above the federal poverty level, yet still unable to afford basic necessities. Because of this, many do not qualify for traditional assistance, leaving them especially vulnerable when unexpected expenses arise.

For example, a family’s primary breadwinner may experience a sudden medical emergency that requires time away from work, resulting in lost income. Even a short disruption can make it difficult to keep up with rent, utilities, or other essential expenses. Through this partnership, Reach of Washington County can step in quickly to provide short-term support that helps stabilize the household during recovery and prevent a much larger crisis—ensuring the family remains housed and the individual is able to return to work.

This vital work is made possible by the generosity of the Ricker Urgent Needs for Families Fund. Their support ensures that families who may fall through the cracks of other systems still have access to help when they need it most.

Together, we are strengthening our community by meeting urgent needs and supporting pathways toward long-term stability.

The United Way of Washington County, MD

We Are Champions For ALICE

Essential, Working, Struggling.

ALICE earns just above the Federal poverty level, lives on a modest household survival budget, yet struggles to afford basic essentials. We all know ALICE. 

ALICE ECONOMIC VIABILITY DASHBOARD

Measuring Economic Well-Being for ALICE

The ALICE Economic Viability Dashboard reveals the economic and community conditions of people who are struggling financially - those below the ALICE Threshold. This includes people in households with income below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and those who are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), with income above the FPL but below the cost of the basics.

By studying ALICE households as well as those in poverty, United For ALICE research shows the true extent of financial hardship across the country. The ALICE Economic Viability Dashboard builds on this research, exploring why so many households are struggling, with new data on ALICE work, housing, and community resources.

Sheehy Subaru Hagerstown

is Giving Back

Access to hygiene products is a Basic Need.

No one—whether individuals, children, or families—should have to worry about accessing hygiene products while trying to work, study, care for loved ones, recover from illness, or improve their future.

We're so proud of the work that United Way of Washington County, Maryland, does to fight this and so many other gaps in the system. In 2025, their 15 hygiene pantries impacted over 7,000 lives.

On Tuesday, March 17, Sheehy Subaru Hagerstown staff helped United Way deliver these products to many locations across Washington County.

Thanks, Sheehy! As we always say, come join us!

On Saturday, March 28, Juniper Café in downtown Hagerstown served 450 FREE meals to the community.

For those who may be food insecure, it was a chance to have an absolutely DELICIOUS MEAL, completely FREE!

Juniper Café is a United Way staff FAVORITE!

From Juniper...



"A special thank you to David Trone for hosting this community event

We’re truly grateful to be chosen for this opportunity.

This was not a political endorsement by Juniper Café.

This is about something we can all stand behind…feeding people."

For transparency, this was a privately booked event at Juniper, and Mr. Trone was present on-site.

Dot Foods, a Continuing Supporter of the Mission of the United Way of Washington County!

A heartfelt thank you to Dot Foods for generously donating 92 cases of cleaning products and 42 cases of nonperishable food valued at more than $5,000.

The thoughtful gift will enable us to continue to support our direct clients, partner agencies, and the clients they serve.

Pictured (left to right): Stephanie M. Harrison, Dot Foods Human Resources Manager, and Heather Lapole, Dot Foods HR Coordinator. 

Live United

Urgent Needs Grant Awards

Each month, the United Way of Washington County

is pleased to partner with various organizations that provide critical services to our community.

Our Urgent Needs Grant is a low-barrier grant designed to assist nonprofits facing unexpected costs due to unforeseen program needs, emergencies, or underlying situations.

For additional information, contact Kelli Tencer at 301-739-8200 ext.104

Applications are due on the 27th of the month.

Where there is a need in our community, United Way is there!

United Way of Washington County, MD, learned about a local ALICE® family facing an unexpected challenge after their infant was diagnosed with Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA). This condition requires a specialized hypoallergenic infant formula for safe nutrition.

Unlike standard baby formula, this medically necessary option comes at a much higher cost. The infant requires six to seven containers each month, creating a significant financial strain for a household already balancing essential expenses such as housing, utilities, and transportation.

Children In Need, Inc. contacted United Way of Washington County, MD, to explore potential funding support. Without assistance, the family risks gaps in access to the formula their child depends on for proper nourishment.

United Way is pleased to award a $455.94 Live United Urgent Needs grant to Children In Need, Inc. to ensure the infant has consistent access to medically necessary nutrition, supporting healthy growth and development during this critical stage of life.

This assistance will provide temporary stabilization while the family works with medical providers and community resources to identify a long-term solution to address this ongoing need.

Pictured left to right, Kelli S. Tencer, Director of Community Impact & Investment, United Way of Washington County, MD, and Brittany Wedd, Executive Director, Children in Need.

Dr. Mauriello’s legacy, however, did not end with his remarkable 40 years of service. Today, his spirit of generosity lives on through his loving wife, Marsha, who has chosen to honor his memory in the most meaningful way possible—by continuing to give back. Through her financial support of the United Way of Washington County, she is extending the same warmth and dedication that defined Dr. Mauriello’s life.

Her efforts with the United Way’s Hygiene Closet Program are more than acts of charity; they are expressions of love. Marsha spends hours of her own time creating beautiful totes for the United Way's outreach programs. By offering her time, resources, and kindness, she is helping to ensure that the values Dr. Mauriello embodied—generosity, compassion, and service—remain alive and thriving.

The impact of this continued giving cannot be overstated. It strengthens our programs, uplifts individuals, and inspires others to follow in their footsteps. Together, Dr. Mauriello’s years of dedicated service and Marsha’s ongoing generosity create a powerful legacy—one built on care, community, and an enduring belief in helping others.

As we reflect on Dr. Mauriello’s 40 years of service, we celebrate not only a life well lived, but a legacy that continues to grow. Through Marsha—her time, and her love—the community remains touched by the same compassion that defined him. It is a reminder that true service does not end; it evolves, carried forward by those who believe in the power of kindness and the importance of giving back.

Thank you to Marsha A. Mauriello for her hand-stitched, beautiful canvas totes.

Our Books United program now brings the joy of reading to 36 locations across Washington County, expanding access to books for more people than ever. Teaming up with our mission partner, Lasting Change, we are turning a page, making real progress, and inspiring a community-wide love for reading.

Spotlight ~ Success Story

Platoon 22

Veterans Program

Platoon 22 provided targeted ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) assistance to a veteran who was experiencing housing instability while undergoing radiation treatment for cancer and participating in the Veteran Treatment Court. Due to medical limitations and loss of income during treatment, the veteran was at imminent risk of homelessness and hopping between hotels.

Through intensive care coordination, Platoon 22 assisted the veteran with short-term financial support to address rent arrears and utilities, ensuring housing stability during and immediately following medical treatment. Case management services also included coordination with healthcare providers, benefit navigation, and connection to local support resources to reduce additional stressors during recovery.

Following the completion of radiation treatment, Platoon 22 supported the veteran in securing employment aligned with their physical capacity and recovery needs. This included resume support, employer coordination, and transportation assistance to interviews. The veteran has since returned to stable employment, and entered into a lease, and is now housed, with improved financial stability and reduced reliance on emergency assistance.

This outcome reflects Platoon 22’s commitment to holistic, veteran-centered support, addressing immediate ALICE-related financial barriers while promoting long-term stability through housing retention and employment.

Submitted by Niki Falzone, Executive Director

So...why donate to United Way?

Did you know that your United Way actively supports or partners with over 90 organizations and many individual Washington County residents annually?

Community Impact: United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. We help neighbors strengthen their resilience by advancing health, youth opportunities, and financial security.

Creating a Thriving Community: United Way seeks to improve lives in Washington County by advancing the common good. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our community, United Way is there. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs.

Local Focus: Donations are invested in local community-impact programs and nonprofits that directly benefit residents of Washington County, MD.

Broader Reach: United Way's approach is broader than that of individual specialized nonprofits, addressing a wider range of community needs. 

Partnering with Agencies: United Way strategically partners with local health and human service agencies to deliver critical, coordinated support that empowers individuals and strengthens our community.

Financial Security: We connect people to education, tools, and job training so they have financial freedom and peace of mind. Together, we can create a stronger financial future for every generation.

Healthy Community: We improve access to nutritious food and quality health education and services, so that people have the resources they need to lead healthy lives. Together, we can improve health and well-being for all.

Youth Opportunity: By creating pathways for young people to reach their goals, from early childhood education to college and career success, we are helping young people realize their full potential.

Community Resiliency: We help the residents of Washington County prepare for, prevent, and respond to challenges, from crisis support and disaster relief to environmental protection. Together, we can address urgent needs today for a better tomorrow.



Your Investment: When you give to the United Way, you’re investing in the strength and stability of your own community. Your support helps local families meet basic needs, access education, and stay on the path to financial stability—especially those who are working hard but still struggling to make ends meet. Every gift, no matter the size, creates real, lasting impact right here at home.

Our donors, partners, and volunteers

make it possible for us to have a

major impact on our community!

If you would like to help the United Way

make a difference in Washington County, please click the DONATE button today!

Thank you so very much for your continued support!

Planned Gift

What will your legacy be? By remembering United Way of Washington County, MD, in your will and estate, you will leave a lasting legacy. Contact United Way of Washington County today at 301.739.8200 for more information on how you can continue to help the community you love.

Securities

Giving long-term (owned more than a year) appreciated securities may provide greater benefits to you.

• You may save current income for day-to-day needs because a gift of security does NOT come out of your cash flow.
• You may save taxes in two ways: Income tax and Capital Gains tax.
• You may lower the "cost" of your gift.



In-Kind

United Way of Washington County gladly accepts in-kind gifts for our hygiene closets, literacy programs, office supplies, and special events. Donating products and services enables us to reduce expenses and dedicate more funding to direct programming. For more information, please contact us at 301.739.8200.

Purchase Items for Our Hygiene Closets

If you prefer to purchase items for our Hygiene Closets, please use this link to our 

Amazon wish list.

Donate Items

Agencies are always looking for office/ computer equipment, furniture, and household items.

Businesses and individuals are encouraged to give in-kind donations and can be assured that United Way of Washington County will connect you to local agencies that are:

• Tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) organizations by the Internal Revenue Service
• Serve Washington County
• Have a health and human resources focus

United Way of Washington County, Maryland, Inc. has been evaluated by Charity Navigator, the world’s largest and most trusted nonprofit evaluator, and earned a 100% Four-Star Rating! This is the highest possible rating on Charity Navigator. 

Charity Navigator’s third-party accreditation validates our organization’s operational excellence.

You can learn more about Charity Navigator and our rating here:

https://charitynavigator.org/ein/520691704. 

The United Way of Washington County earned a 2025 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency!

Check out our nonprofit profile to keep up to date with our impact. 

https://

www.guidestar.org/profile/52-0691704

Keep this link handy; we want to ensure you always have the information you need to support our work with trust and confidence.

Check out these links for information on non-profits in Washington County.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED



United Way of Washington County, MD is currently seeking additional members of the community to serve on both the Development and GIVE (Give. Invest. Volunteer. Educate) Committees. We ask interested parties to commit to at least once-a-month hybrid committee meetings in return for having a voice in how UWWC can maximize our reach within our community. 

For more information, please reach out to Heather Guessford at heather@uwwcmd.org or

301-739-8200 ext.102.

Please share this with all your friends.

2-1-1 Maryland - Supported by our local United Way, this is the state's most comprehensive health and human services resource database. With approximately 7,500 resources, individuals with essential needs can connect to local help 24/7/365.

You can dial 2-1-1 on your phone to speak with someone, or visit https://211md.org/.

Hagerstown Area Religious Council has also compiled the following resources:

Food & Clothing Resources - https://harccoalition.org/resources/food-and-clothing/

Housing/Shelter - https://harccoalition.org/resources/housing-shelter/

Washington County Mental Health Authority has a listing of mental health providers at https://wcmha.org/provider-directory/.

United Way of Washington County, Maryland

Many of us take the ability to get from Point A to Point B for granted. For many Washington County residents, transportation is a significant challenge. If you cannot drive yourself and are unable to secure a ride, transportation can be an overwhelming barrier to your job, your doctor, your school, and more. The Ride United Network (RUN) program provides a temporary solution to transportation barriers that prevent residents of Washington County, MD, from accessing basic needs. Transportation has proven to be a key issue for many individuals seeking services to gain financial stability and independence.

What is Ride United?

Ride United is a program with a clear mission: to fill the gap in transportation assistance. United Way of Washington County now offers this option when no other transportation options are available, ensuring that all community members have access to the critical services they need. 

In collaboration with Lyft and Community Partners, Ride United provides convenient round-trip, on-demand Lyft rides. These rides connect community members to essential services such as education, employment, healthcare, and legal assistance, providing a reliable, stress-free transportation solution.

The program is open only to Washington County residents. It covers up to $54 round-trip; the individual is responsible for expenses beyond $54 ($27 each way). There are different provisions for each ride. All rides must originate in Washington County, MD. Requests for trips taken to other states or counties will be denied. 

Ride United is supported by the generous contributions of the City of Hagerstown through the Community Development Block Grant, the Community Foundation of Washington County, and the Alice Virginia and David W. Fletcher Foundation.

RIDE UNITED MAY BE UTILIZED FOR: 

Our Books United program, launched in May 2022,

currently has 36 active partners. Since its inception,

we have collected and redistributed over 85,000 books!

In addition to book distributions, we also host multiple reading clubs,

including one at Coffman Nursing Home and

Lasting Change Recovery Solutions for Women.

March was Read Across America Month

The 2026 Read Across America Week, held March 2-6, focused on the theme of "Champion Kindness," aimed at fostering empathy, connection, and diverse reading experiences. This NEA initiative encourages celebrating a "Nation of Diverse Readers" by highlighting inclusive stories and promoting literacy in schools and communities.

Julien Patrick, a case worker with the Asian American Center of Frederick, is passionate about his work. The United Way of Washington County was excited to share our Books United Read Across America initiative for 2026 with HARC, Hagerstown Area Religious Council, and the Asian American Center of Frederick through the ENOUGH Initiative. The bilingual book choice enabled families to share a language learning experience.

As always, a special thanks to our wonderful volunteers,

John and Tara (Book Nook), Sharon Giles,

Beth Johnston, Jo Ellen Allenberg, and Vicki Willey!

United Way of Washington County's Books United Program

Invites You to Visit the BOOK NOOK!

We invite all community members to visit the Book Nook, ensuring that every child has access to the reading materials they deserve. Your engagement and support are vital in fostering a brighter future for our children through literacy!

You can find the Book Nook at the Valley Mall, just outside JCPenney. It serves as an essential resource for families looking to inspire a love of reading in their children.

The Valley Mall has been part of our community for over 50 years!

Since July 2024, we have impacted over 10,000 people, and our numbers are GROWING by the day.

Our on-campus closets discreetly benefit low-income students and their families who lack transportation and/or those wishing to keep their demonstrated needs private. Our most requested hygiene items include shampoo, deodorant, and body wash. We have experienced growing requests for laundry pods, feminine pads, and liners.

Requests for specialty items include lice kits and body wipes for those living in our rural communities who lack sufficient running water...yes, there are many!

If you wish to learn more about either program or become a partner location, please contact Stacey Abeles - stacey@uwwcmd.org or Kathy Harple - kathy@uwwcmd.org.

Hygiene Closet Coordinator Stacey

Abeles meets with Teresa Jordan,

Student Counselor from Clear Spring.

United Way has 15 active hygiene closets 12 located within schools, and currently collaborates with 9 organizations throughout Washington County:

TESTIMONIAL... Submitted by a counselor at a partner school

One parent had a car accident and required surgery for injuries that she sustained. She was not able to get around well, and all of her energy was used to get her child ready for school and care for him afterwards. She also shared that she was unhappy about some scarring and told me the doctor had recommended cocoa butter lotion for the time being. Because of our hygiene closet, not only was I able to send her home supplies for self-care so she didn't need to purchase or shop for them, but we actually were able to supply her with the cocoa butter lotion! 

She was extremely thankful and sent me many emails to express her gratitude.  

We depend heavily on volunteers at the United Way of Washington County.

We couldn't do what we do without the people who dedicate their time and make themselves available to help with the day-to-day

responsibilities of maintaining our programs.

Zach Abeles is one of those volunteers! Helping to sort and shelf products in our hygiene closet helps to make deliveries to our in-school closets throughout Washington County an easier task.

If you would like to volunteer, please contact Stacey Abeles at stacey@uwwcmd.org or

Kathy Harple at kathy@uwwcmd.org

We'll be happy to work around your schedule.

The United Way is proud to collaborate with the ENOUGH Initiative,

uniting our efforts to uplift and empower families in the

Bester Community of Hope area. Together, we are making a

meaningful difference in their lives.

The United Way of Washington County was excited to attend "Common Ground," Cultivating Spaces for Families, on March 25 at the Maryland Theatre.

This inspiring event included community members from all walks of life coming together to explore resilience, transformation, and the role of human connection in building stronger, more inclusive communities.

Daryl Davis, Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, and Dr. Bruce Perry were the featured speakers, each bringing profound insight and lived experience to the conversation. The guest speakers shared personal stories and aligned evidence on overcoming adversity, building bridges across differences, and fostering lasting, positive change for families and communities.

The United Way of Washington County hygiene closet/warehouse

is situated at the drive-thru/walk-up area on Court Place

at the rear of our offices at 83 W. Washington Street.

Working with several community organizations through our voucher-based hygiene closet, we have served over 1,400 people at this location since its inception in 2024.

Our "closet bags" contain essential hygiene supplies to support the needs of those who visit the walk-up window and our partners located throughout the County.

Occasionally, the United Way receives miscellaneous items from our partners that may not fit into our standard Hygiene Closet offerings. When these items are available, we feature them in our Kindness Korner.

Visitors to the Hygiene Closet window on Thursday mornings can select two items from our bin, which may include snacks, light food items, or even pet food. While the Kindness Korner isn't always available, it's a special way for us to share a little extra kindness when possible.

What some of our visitors have shared...

"Thank you for the can of soup. I'm going to find a place to heat this up, and my family will have a nice meal tonight." 

" God Bless you, United Way. This window has been such a blessing to my family." 

If you have events, volunteer opportunities, or other information

you would like to include in our monthly newsletter please contact

Kathy Harple at kathy@uwwc.md.org

From Our Partners...

THIS SPRING, CHANGE A LIFE. Join thousands of people across the globe in our mission to bring life-changing clean water and fullness of life to children in communities around the world. Walk, run, or ride your bike with us at the World Vision Global 6K for Water. Each registration provides lasting clean water to a child, like the child on your race bib!

DATE: Saturday, May 16, 2026

TIME: 8:45 pre-event ceremony, 9:00 start

LOCATION: Paramount Elementary School, 19410 Longmeadow Rd, Hagerstown, MD 21742

To register or donate, please go to: https://global6k.worldvision.org/teams/39506

Volunteer Drivers Needed

Meritus Health needs volunteers that are willing to help with long distance transportation. They have a person with 3 upcoming appointments at Johns Hopkins that has no transport. Contact 301-790-8624 for more info.

The Hagerstown Housing Authority is currently in need of volunteers/groups to help provide lunches to low-income seniors and disabled residents residing at Potomac Towers in Hagerstown. The Potomac Towers Lunch Program operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Volunteer groups assist by providing either grab and go bagged lunches, serving a hot meal onsite, assisting with making and distributing the lunches or providing donations of items. The volunteers normally provide meals or drop them off at the Towers around 11:30 am. The Lunch Program currently is without regular volunteer groups. If interested in assisting, please contact Deena Holder via email at dholder@hagerstownha.com or via phone at 301-733-6911 x163. 

Use JustServe for your volunteer needs

and opportunities!

Looking for volunteers to serve in your ministry? Or are you looking for volunteer opportunities for yourself and/or your group? JustServe is a website where volunteer needs meet volunteers. All nonprofits, houses of worship and faith-based organizations are welcome to use this service to post your volunteer needs - just contact Ashlee Harris to get started at jon2ash@gmail.com or text 801-860-1301. Those searching for volunteer opportunities can simply search the database by city, state or zip code or even look for ways to volunteer by remote.

Mentoring Closes the Opportunity Gap

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America recently shared the findings of a study that proves that mentored youth have greater enrollment in higher education, increased salaries, reduced dependency on social services, and improved behavioral outcomes over time. This groundbreaking study demonstrates the transformative power of mentoring in shaping young people’s educational, economic, and social trajectories, and explains how mentoring programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters can serve as scalable solutions to reduce socioeconomic disparities. To learn more, find the summary HERE. To learn more about mentoring with BBBS of Washington County, visit bbbswcmd.org

Hagerstown Area Religious Council is a HUGE hub for resources in Washington County

Homeless Street Guide

The Homeless Street Guide (January 2026) is a quick reference to give out to homeless individuals and families in Washington County. 3-per-page for a small helpful resource.

Shelters in Washington County

See list of Shelters in Washington County for a more detailed list of shelters, their requirements, and what they offer.

Rapid Rehousing & Homeless Outreach

The Homeless Coalition is providing a new and dynamic service in the community. If you are homeless and are interested in housing, please contact one of these providers for additional information:

Community Action Council: 301-797-4161 x131 (serves homeless families)

REACH: 301-733-2371 x103 or x106 (serves homeless individuals)

Horizon Goodwill: 301-733-7330 (serves homeless individuals, unaccompanied youths)

Washington County Housing Case Management

Useful links and guides from Community Action Council. Contain information on emergency shelter/housing, public housing, low-cost rental housing, senior housing, and various housing programs. Great to use as reference. See Community Action Council’s Housing Case Management web page for updated versions of these guides

Hagerstown Home Store

Hagerstown Home Store offers a wide range of housing counseling and resources, including down-payment assistance.  Brochure   Visit website.

The Women’s Club

The Women’s Club at 31 South Prospect St., offers housing for ladies of low income that is not time-limited. They have single bedroom rooms with beds, dressers. The ladies share a common kitchen and bathrooms. It is a safe, secure building. The rents vary from $230/mo to $295/mo, depending on whether the room has a bathroom attached. If interested, please contact Linda at 301-739-0870, Monday through Friday 9 am to 1 pm.

Habitat for Humanity of Washington County

Habitat for Humanity offers a variety of programs to support the various needs of current and future Washington County homeowners.

• New Home Building
• Home Renovations
• Home Preservation Program
• A Brush with Kindness
• Weatherization
• Critical Repairs

For additional information about any of these programs, including how to apply, call (301) 791-9009.

Energy Assistance

Community Action Council manages local energy assistance programs. Past due bills up to $2,000 are covered once in 5 years for eligible households. Also, apply for a subsidy (discount) on your monthly energy bill to reduce the cost to an amount you can afford. Learn more on CAC’s website, call 301-797-4161, or apply in person at 117 Summit Avenue, Hagerstown (or one of CAC’s rural locations).

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Founded in Kimberly, Idaho, in 2012, Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit providing hand-made bunk beds to children who don’t have beds of their own. Not only do they deliver these beds to children in need, but they partner with organizations, churches, businesses, and individuals to build them at events called Build Days! Learn more and request a bed on their website.

Free Community Lunch

Every 2nd Thurs. | 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

Marlowe Assembly of God

9045 Williamsport Pike, Falling Waters, WV

All are welcome!!! Bring a friend. Share a meal. Enter at the back of the church, come down the steps, and you will find a warm welcome and delicious food prepared by our Community Lunch Team. Drop in anytime between 11:30 am - 1:30 pm.

Help with Diapers and Home Supplies

for Refugee Families

The Refugee Welcome Network is actively working with ten families and still offering some support for others struggling this month with reduced hours at Amazon and FedEx. Some families have babies and can't afford diapers, formula, and other supplies. We've connected them to all community resources available, but it's not quite enough. Donations of gift cards from Walmart, Target, or another source of baby supplies are wanted to help lighten the load of these new Americans as they work hard to build a life here. If you can give a gift card, please email director@harccoalition.org. Monetary donations are also a blessing to help with various needs.

https://harccoalition.org/programs/refugee-welcome-network/

The Boys & Girls Club of Washington County is seeking volunteer reading tutors to help elementary aged youth strengthen their literacy skills. Volunteers can commit to as little as twice a month for 30–60 minutes per session. This small investment of time can make a meaningful impact on a child’s confidence, academic growth, and love for reading. Our club and community would be deeply grateful for the opportunity to partner with caring individuals who want to make a difference.

To learn more, contact Kal Desta, Unit Director, kaldesta@bgcwc.org or 240-866-5101

Walking 2 Wellness - Wednesdays

Every Wednesday, 12:00 pm

The Athletic, Recreation and Community Center (ARCC)

Hagerstown Community College

11400 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown

Trying to fulfill your New Year's Resolution in getting healthier? Let's get healthy together! Be part of Prime Time For Women's "Walking 2 Wellness" community … meet new people, connect with longtime friends, and develop a regular exercise regime that is good for you. Even better, it’s fun! Prime Time For Women Website / Facebook.

FREE Community Resources

Here are Resources that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers, either online or in person. They have specialists over each category who are willing to individually help people that might be interested in these programs. Please share this with anyone you feel it could be valuable/useful for.

Make sure to keep up to date with everything going on in Hagerstown by following our announcements and staying connected with the pulse of the city. Whether it's festivals, concerts, or important announcements, we'll keep you in the loop. Don't miss out - stay connected and be part of the vibrant Hagerstown community!

RADIO FREE HUB CITY

News, events, and entertainment for Hagerstown, Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and beyond.

 https://www.facebook.com/RadioFreeHubCity/

Volunteers Drivers Needed

Meritus Hematology Oncology has a patient who needs treatments 5 days/week for 6 weeks and needs rides each day from Martinsburg, WV, to and from the John Marsh Cancer Center. We also have patients who need transportation to other hospitals in Baltimore and DC as well.

Some volunteers are already lined up to help with this, but more are needed for a rotation. The Cancer Center is finding that there are more patients who need this kind of help who are living or have appointments outside of the radius of available services. So even if you can't help with this, you may be able to help with another need.

If you have time to give to drive a patient, please contact Brandi Zeigler at 301-665-4710.

Main Street Hagerstown

Main Street Hagerstown is a volunteer-driven, downtown revitalization program of the City of Hagerstown. We aim to protect our historic character, strengthen our business community, respect the environment, promote gathering spaces for friends and family, and hold outstanding events.

Save the Date

Being Peace in Challenging Times

Sun., Apr. 19 | 5:00 pm



A HARC event hosted by Hebron Mennonite Church

13315 Highlane Street, Hagerstown

The Interfaith Team of HARC invites you to a sacred gathering where people of different religious and spiritual traditions come together with a shared intention: to cultivate peace within themselves and extend it outward into a troubled world. Hymns, chants, mantras, (all a cappela) along with readings from sacred texts will create space for reflection and connection. In challenging times, this service becomes more than a ceremony. It becomes a living witness and reminder that unity does not require uniformity, and that peace is not passive—it is an active, daily practice grounded in humility, courage, and love. Light refreshments will be offered after the service. 

MUSIC IN THE PLAZA

FREE

Enjoy an evening of classic cars and music in Downtown Hagerstown!

The Alsatia Club will be hosting Thunder in the Square and Downtown Hagerstown Main Street will have music from local favorite, The Cruisers at University Plaza. Music is FREE and open to the public!

Save the Date

4th Annual Health Summit

Sat., May 9 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Zion Baptist Church

61 Bethel Street, Hagerstown

This year's theme is "Struggles of Addiction & Mental Health". This collaborative event will unite healthcare providers, behavioral health specialists, community organizations, faith leaders, and local residents to promote awareness, share prevention strategies, and facilitate access to vital recovery resources. If you are interested in participating as a vendor or a speaker contact Linda Brooks, (301) 739-5616. Event Info. Invite to participate.

Save the Date(s): HARC Hikes 2026

Challenge Hike: Saturday, May 16

Canal Hike: Saturday, May 30

NEW LOCATION! C&O Canal Towpath in WILLIAMSPORT & Zion Lutheran Church

Registration coming soon. The Ed Poling Memorial HARC Hike for Hunger & Hope is a non-competitive fundraising event open to all ages. The Canal Hike on May 30 is a fully supported 5K or 10K hike on the beautiful C&O Canal towpath. Enjoy scenic water views, water & Gatorade refills and snacks along the way, and a hearty lunch with fellowship. The Challenge Hike has 10-mile or 20-mile options this year on the Appalachian Trail. This is a one-way, fully supported hike with breakfast, lunch, drink refills and snacks along the way. Both hikes raise funds for HARC programs, with a significant portion going to Micah's Backpack and the Refugee Welcome Network.