HOC Academy Newsletter | July 2020
Summer is here and we have worked with our partners to create fun, interactive, hands-on virtual camps for your children! Programs for students in 3rd-8th grade are just a click away.

Each camper will receive a supply kit, log-in ID, guide, completion certificate, and gift. Students with 100% attendance will receive a STEM gift valued at $50-$100. Twenty (20) spaces are available in each elementary camp. Twenty-four (24) spaces are available in each middle school cohort of the Young Science Explorers Program.

Scholarships are available for families experiencing financial hardship (proof will be required). To register click here , for more information or questions email: [email protected].
Prekindergarten & Head Start
Invest in your child's future today by registering him/her/them for Montgomery County Public School's (MCPS) Prekindergarten and Head Start program. Take the first step to secure a space for your child by completing the MCPS Survey below.
If you are unable to complete the MCPS online survey, call 240-740-5999 and ask for Prekindergarten staff to call you to provide assistance.
FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM
Create a Better Future
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) is a voluntary initiative for customers in the Housing Opportunities Commission's voucher program. With support from caring case managers and motivating mentors, participants are supported in creating life changing goals and establishing tools for success. If you are ready for something new in your life, learn more about the FSS program at one of the upcoming information sessions email [email protected] or call (240) 627-9781.
Attend an upcoming Virtual Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Information Session. These informative one-hour sessions provide information about how FSS can support you in creating a better future for you and your family.

Register to attend at: [email protected] .
For more information call 240-627-9719. A valid email address is required to participate.
To RSVP for this event, email [email protected] .

Maryland Senior Call Check

During these stressful times it may be a challenge to stay connected to the elders in our lives. The state of Maryland Senior Call Check program is a free service for Maryland residents 65 years old and older. Seniors will receive a daily telephone call at their scheduled time. This daily check in can offer peace of mind for seniors who live alone. Seniors can sign up online at aging.maryland.gov or by telephone at (866) 502-0560.
For a Limited Time: Access Free MedStar eVisits
(Available in multiple languages)
For a limited time MedStar's trusted medical team is offering free video visits and insurance is not required. All day, every day, you can get the medical care that you need from anywhere and at anytime. You can securely connect with a medical provider from your smart phone, tablet, or computer for non-emergency medical conditions. Download the MedStar eVisit app or visit MedStarHealth.org/eVisit .
Active Duty Veterans & Military Connected Families

The District of Columbia and Montgomery County active duty veterans and military families who are experiencing food insecurity, can receive food assistance. Partners in both jurisdictions have come together to provide a free produce box with delivery for our nation's heroes and their families. Submit a food assistance request for a produce box at: Serving Together Project .

For questions or concerns call 855-738-7176 or email [email protected] .
Pet Food Pantry
During COVID-19 many in our community are experiencing shortages of all kinds. If you need help with food for your pet, the Montgomery County Humane Society pet food pantry is here for you. For more information, visit MCHumane .
HOC Academy Tuition Assistance
  •  Available to current HOC residents only
 
  • The Academy is accepting referrals for Tuition Assistance for Fall 2020 semester!

  • To be eligible, you must make an appointment and complete an assessment with your Resident Counselor no later than July 24, 2020. Once the Academy receives your assessment and referral, you will be contacted by an Academy staff member for further assistance.

Raptor Ready:
New Scholarship Program for County Graduates Covers Tuition and Fees for One Montgomery College Class
Eligible 2020 Montgomery County high school graduates can take a Montgomery College (MC) Summer Course at no cost. The scholarship program covers tuition and fees for one course (4 billed hour maximum) and a grant to cover technology or educational supplies not to exceed $530 for the second summer session at MC, which begins July 11. For more details and to apply,   click here .

Fall 2020 Safety Institute

If you want an exciting career helping others, consider becoming a 911 Dispatcher. The 911 Dispatch Academy at Montgomery College will provide the necessary training for this rewarding career. For more information contact: [email protected]
Early Childhood Education Training
Do you want a good job in the growing Childcare industry? Do you need help with your English language skills? In this program you will improve your English while learning the skills to work for programs that serve children. Learn the vital skills for working with children from infancy through eight years old. In addition to receiving top-notch training, we will help you acquire a job in the field of Childcare.

Register to attend one of our upcoming July information sessions. Click here to register for a Childcare information session.