DIGEST Newsletter
October 2025
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Click on any of the above links to change the language using Google Translate
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You are invited to join Community Health Workers as they use visual storytelling to foster discussion around community strengths and opportunities for change in the Waterloo Road area in Elkridge, Maryland.
Learn about the strengths and lived experiences within the neighborhood and engage in dialogue to spark meaningful community change.
This FREE community event is hosted by the Howard County Local Health Improvement Coalition. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is encouraged.
Date and Time: Monday, November 10, 2025, 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Location: Howard County Library System - Elkridge Branch, 6540 Washington Boulevard Elkridge, MD 21075
Click here to learn more and to register.
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The Healthier Choices Coalition's Food Insecurity Town Hall earlier this month! It was an engaging, insightful and inspiring evening to be in community with folks who want to ensure that everyone in Howard County has access to healthy and affordable food.
Pictured are the Coalition volunteers and the all-star panelist (from l-r): Alice Harris from the Healthier Choices Coalition, Erika Chavarría from Columbia Community Care, Brian Ralph from the Howard County Public School System, James Zoller from The Roving Radish, and Reena Rambharat from the Bureau Assessment, Planning and Community Engagement the at Howard County Health Department.
Click here to learn more.
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Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, alongside the Baltimore Ravens, Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) Superintendent Bill Barnes, and Recreation & Parks Director Nick Mooneyhan, announced a new partnership to launch girls flag football across all county high schools this fall.
The league will kick off under Howard County Recreation & Parks and transition to HCPSS in 2026. Supported by the Ravens, the initiative includes funding, free clinics, and a commitment to growing the sport statewide.
“As a girl dad, I could not be prouder of what the future holds for our scholar-athletes,” said Ball, highlighting the program’s focus on teamwork, leadership, and confidence.
For more information, click here.
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Do you need a safe space to talk about motherhood? Have you felt that speaking about the ease and joy of motherhood often seems to be welcomed, while discussing the hardships seems prohibited? If so, you are not alone.
Join Columbia Community Care, Harriet Tubman Cultural Center, and Restorative Justice Partnership as they explore embodied experiences that shape our interactions with ourselves and one another.
Date and Time: Wednesday, October 8, 2025, 5:00 - 8:00 pm
Location: Harriet Tubman Cultural Center, 8045 Harriet Tubman Ln, Columbia, MD 21044
Click here to register.
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Join in the raising of awareness about bullying at the film screening the "The Upstanders". Post-screening Q&A with community partners.
Screening is free and open to the public. RSVP required.
Date and Time: Wednesday, October 8, 2025, 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Location: Columbia Art Center, 6100 Foreland Garth, Columbia, MD 21045 (Located in the Long Reach Village Center)
Click here to register.
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We invite parents to join us in learning how dads can make a big difference in breastfeeding success. Get tips, benefits, and guidance from certified lactation consultants to make breastfeeding a positive experience for everyone.
Date and Time: Thursday, October 16, 2025, 9:30 - 10:30 am
Location: Family Support Center, 9790 Patuxent Woods Dr., Columbia, MD 21046
Please note that childcare will not provided.
Click here to register. For questions, please contact Ovan Shortt, oshortt@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-1453.
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Howard County Local Children’s Board is excited to invite you to an upcoming event focused on Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This engaging and informative workshop explores the science behind ADHD and offers practical tools for supporting neurodiverse learners. Lunch and light refreshments will be provided. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know when registering.
Date and Time: Thursday, October 16, 2025, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm.
Location: East Columbia 50+ Center, 6610 Cradlerock Way, Columbia, MD 21045
This workshop is free to attend; however, registration is required.
Click here to register. For questions, please contact Mary Ndukwe at mndukwe@howardcountymd.gov or call at 410-313-6552.
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Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) is hosting a clothing distribution event. While supplies last!
New/gently used coats, gloves, mittens, and scarves are needed from all sizes and ages, from infants to adults! Volunteers are also needed to help collect, sort and organize collected items for distribution.
Date and Time: Saturday, October 18th, 2025, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: North Laurel Community Center
9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel, MD 20723
For more information, please contact Valerie Mathis at 410-313-0242 or email vmathis@howardcountymd.gov.
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The Howard County Health Department Perinatal Equity and Care for Everyone (P.E.A.C.E.) is hosting upcoming FREE diaper giveaways at the Howard County Health Department, Heroes Room B. Our PEACE Project team will be on-hand to answer questions and provide resources for other pregnancy needs.
Date and Time: Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Howard County Health Department (Heroes Room B), 8930 Stanford Blvd., Columbia, MD 21045
Walk-in only; no registration required.
Click here to learn more.
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Howard County Health Department is listening! Tell us what you think about women's health so we can improve community services. Topics we'll cover:
- Getting ready for baby (pregnancy, birth,
- and infant care)
- Finding reliable health info
- Mental health support for women
Dates, Times, and Locations
- Wednesday, November 5, 2025, 12:30-2:00 pm at the Howard County Family Support Center (FREE lunch and childcare will be provided)
- Wednesday, December 3, 2025, 6:00-7:30 pm, Virtual only via Zoom
- Saturday, January 10, 2026, 10:00-11:30 am at the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center
For more information, email lhic@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-6204.
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The Howard County’s Child and Adolescent Resources and Education (CARE) Line is a free information and referral service connecting families with childcare resources, parenting support, and other essential services. If you're dealing with problems because of your job changing back to working in an office, or because of new schedules, the CARE Line team is here to help you find solutions that work for your family.
For more information, click here, email children@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-CARE (2273).
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The Howard County Office of Children and Families Parent Pages newsletter has resources for parents, caregivers and agencies working with families.
Each monthly issue features information to help parents and caregivers learn how to promote positive parenting
for children’s development.
Click here to view most recent newsletter.
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The Columbia Mom is a trusted community resource and support network for mothers and caregivers in Howard County.
Led by Claire Duarte, it creates a safe, inclusive space for sharing experiences, learning from one another, and fostering meaningful connections among families.
To learn more about the resources available, visit The Columbia Mom website here.
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All are invited to kick off Walktober - a monthlong celebration of walking, Maryland's official sport - with Howard County Office of Aging and Independence (OAI).
Date and Time: Friday, October 3, 2025, 8:00 - 10:00 am
Location: The Mall in Columbia (lower level, in the seating/atrium area by Dunkin Donuts), 10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21044
The first 50 participants will get a free t-shirt!
Visit the Howard County Office of Aging and Independence information table to find out about local walking clubs, fitness programs and other OAI services, and enjoy complimentary coffee, water and healthy snacks. Bring a friend to join the group walk, beginning at 8:30 am.
Click here to learn more and to register.
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The Howard County Local Health Improvement Coalition (HCLHIC) is excited to share materials developed through the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) Diabetes Communication Campaign Grant, a local public health initiative aimed at raising awareness about prediabetes, diabetes, and access to SNAP benefits.
This campaign focuses on promoting healthy lifestyle tips, using SNAP benefits, and helping residents learn more about prediabetes and diabetes prevention.
We are distributing culturally and linguistically appropriate materials to support outreach across Howard County. Posters and postcards are available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean.
Please use this form to let us know which resources you would like to receive.
Click here to learn more.
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Howard County Office and Aging and Independence is hosting a learning session about Medicare Open Enrollment period with Howard County State Health Insurance program (SHIP).
SHIP's Certified Medicare Counselors provide free, unbiased assistance with Medicare and can help you learn the difference between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare, how to shop for Medicare Advantage plans and when you can shop for Medigap policies.
Date and Time: Wednesday, October 8, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Elkridge 50+ Center, 6540 Washington Blvd, Elkridge, MD 21075
Click here to register to attend the information session at Elkridge or contact SHIP at 410-313-7392 (voice/relay) to schedule a one-on-one appointment during Medicare Open Enrollment.
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Howard County Office of Aging and Independence are hosting two exciting events to start Walktober off on the right foot.
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Glenwood 50+ Center's walk through Western Regional Park on Thursday, October 9, 2025, starting at 10:00 am. Click here to register.
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Then finish out the month with the Bain 50+ Center's 4th annual Walktober event on Thursday, October 30 at 11:00 am. Click here to register by October 23, 2025.
In addition to these events, check out OAI's 50+ Center ongoing walking clubs, plus activities and events to keep you active and engaged all month long. Come visit us!
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Join St. John the Evangelist Church for dance and a community workout!
Dates: Mondays at 6:00 pm and Saturdays at 9:00 am, now through October 25th, 2025
Location: Plaza Outside of Wilde Lake Interfaith Center,10431 Twin Rivers Road, Columbia MD 21044
For more information, click here.
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Howard County Health Department, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has partnered with Stoecker Farms to offer pop-up Farmer's Markets at the Ascend One Building (8930 Stanford Blvd. Columbia MD 21045). Stoecker Farms will be offering local, organic/natural produce on the following dates:
- Tuesday, October 14 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Cash, cards, SNAP, eWIC & WIC FMNP checks will be accepted. For questions, call 410-313-5891.
Visit the WIC webpage for additional information.
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The Howard County Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) invites residents to join the Living Well program—free, evidence-based workshops that support adults in managing chronic conditions and improving overall wellness.
Participants build skills in stress management, nutrition, and fitness through weekly small-group sessions, offered in English, Korean, and Spanish. Topics include chronic disease, diabetes, and chronic pain self-management.
Dates, times, and locations vary. Click here to learn more and to register.
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Presentado en colaboración con el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Howard y la Oficina sobre el Envejecimiento y la Independencia de Howard, este taller de autogestión basado en evidencias está diseñado para gente que vive con diabetes y/o sus cuidadores. Los temas semanales incluyen, monitoreo de glucosa, cuidado de la piel y los pies, ejercicios, nutrición y alimentación saludable y el mantenimiento balanceado del azúcar en la sangre. Solo para personas de 18 años o más.
Fechas y Hora: Sábados, 11 de octubre - 8 de noviembre, 2025, 10:30 am - 1:00 .
Lugar: Howard County Library, Central Branch, 10375 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21044
Haga clic aquí para registrarse. Para obtener información adicional, comuníquese con María José Candanoza al 410-313-7223.
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Hosted by The Community Ecology Institute (CEI), come enjoy an autumnal afternoon spent fireside sharing a meal, creating community, and enjoying the garden in its fall splendor!
Date and Time: Sunday, October 26, 2025, 1:00 - 6:00 pm
Location: Jim Duke's Green Farmacy Garden, 8210 Murphy Road, Fulton, MD 20759
For more information, click here.
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The Howard County Food Connection Map helps you find free and low-cost food and nutrition resources in your area. This interactive tool was recently updated to include:
- 2025 Howard County Farmers Markets
- 2025 Mobile Markets
- And more
Click here to access the Food Connections Map.
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HC DrugFree will be holding their annual Drive-Thru Medication Collection in partnership with the Howard County Police Department on the Drug Enforcement Administration’s national Drug Take Back Day.
Date and Time: Saturday, October 25, 2025, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Location: Wilde Lake Village Center parking lot, 5305 Village Center Drive, Columbia, MD 21044
Please Note: No sharps (needles, syringes, EpiPens, etc.) will not be collected at this event. The Howard County Bureau of Environmental Services recommends that you place used (or unused) needles in an empty plastic bottle (ex. detergent bottle) to protect the trash collection crew. When the bottle is full, add the cap and put the bottle in your curbside trash. For more information, click here.
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The Howard County Local Children’s Board is hosting Voices of Change: Embracing the Power of We, a live theatre presentation that addresses the impact of lived experiences and helps navigate today’s world. This free event brings a voice to often unheard communities and a shared vision to support fairness and justice for all humanity.
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Date and Time: Thursday, October 30, 2025, 5:15 pm - 8:00 pm (Networking Session 5:15 pm - 6:00 pm, Presentation Promptly Starting at 6:00 pm)
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Location: Howard Community College, Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center, Horowitz Center Smith Theatre, Campus Dr, Columbia, MD 21044
Click here to register.
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MCF offers multiple family leadership development opportunities each year in communities across Maryland. These 2-day events enhance parent and caregiver skills so they can better navigate systems of care and become stronger advocates for their children, themselves, their families, and their communities.
Howard County Residents:
Dates and Times: Friday, November 7, 2025, 5:00 - 9:00 pm, and Saturday, November 8, 2025, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Application deadline is October 17, 2025.
Click here to register.
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Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center is hosting a free mental health first aid course. Participants will learn to assist an adult who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge including:
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Signs and symptoms of mental illness and substance use.
- How to interact in a non-crisis and crisis situation.
- How to provide initial support and connect them to appropriate care.
- The Mental Health First Aid Action Plan for panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, non-suicidal self-injury, reaction to a traumatic event, and substance abuse.
Includes a self-paced online course to be completed before the instructor-led class. The online course will be the foundation for the skills practiced in class.
Date and Time: Friday, November 7, 2025, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Location: Virtual via Zoom
Click here to register.
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Guiding Good Choices® is an evidence-based, interactive prevention program that helps you build a stronger bond with your child, while also providing skills proven to reduce the risk of children engaging in substance use.
This series of five Zoom classes is for parents, guardians, and grandparents of 9-14 years old, but will consider slightly older or younger children on a case by case basis. Adult or child must be a Howard County resident.
Date and Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays, November 11, 13, 18, 20 and December 2, 12:00 - 1:30 pm
Location: Virtual via Zoom
Click here to register.
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Africans for Mental Health is hosting Mental Health First Aid and QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Trainings.
Mental Health First Aider Courses: This evidence-based training teaches participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in adults.
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Format: Two hours of self-paced/pre-work online learning. Six hours of live, instructor-led training over two days (3-hour sessions)
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Cost: Free
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Date: Multiple dates are offered.
Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Courses: Is a nationally recognized suicide prevention training designed to teach individuals how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade, and refer someone to help.
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Format: Online 2-Hour, Instructor-Led, Interactive Training
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Cost: Free
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Date: Multiple dates are offered.
For detailed information, click here.
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Everstand is hosting an 8-hour training introducing common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. One or two certified instructors lead each course. Classes usually consist of 30 people or less and are offered in a respectful, comfortable environment.
Click here for more information.
For questions, please contact Donna Phillips at dphillips@everstand.org or call at 443-615-3151.
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Register is now open for the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) of Howard County's free fall classes!
Class are for parents, caregivers of children and teens who are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness, adults with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition, and adults with a mental health condition.
NAMI Family-to-Family (in-person and virtual):
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Dates and Times: Thursdays, September 18 - November 6, 2025, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
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Location: NAMI HC Office, 9650 Santiago Rd., Suite 1, Columbia, MD and via Zoom
NAMI Peer-to-Peer (in-person and virtual):
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Dates and Times: Tuesdays, September 30 - November 18, 2025, 6:30 - 8:30 pm
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Location: NAMI HC Office, 9650 Santiago Rd., Suite 1, Columbia, MD and via Zoom
NAMI Basics (via Zoom):
- Dates and Times: Wednesdays, October 15 - November 19, 2025, 6:30 - 9:00 pm
For more information visit our classes page. To register fill out our class interest form or email Kristen at kmoore@namihowardcountymd.org.
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Grassroots provides free, around-the-clock support for individuals facing substance use challenges or seeking treatment—no referrals, appointments, or insurance needed. Services include screenings, counseling, withdrawal management, and medication-assisted treatment.
Their team of nurses, clinicians, counselors, and peer specialists helps connect people to long-term recovery, including insurance enrollment, financial planning, and transportation assistance—all in a safe, welcoming environment.
Get help now:
- Call Grassroots 24 hours a day at 410-531-6677 or 9-8-8
- Walk in to our free, 24-hour crisis center at 8990 Old Annapolis Rd, Suite A, in Columbia, MD 21045
- Request transportation to Grassroots by calling 410-531-6677
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For more info, visit the Grassroots Crisis Intervention website.
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The Howard County Health Department's Bureau of Behavioral Health and the Howard County Library System is providing adults age 18 and older with free gun safety locks at the Elkridge Library and East Columbia Library branches to help increase gun safety, reduce accidental injuries, and save lives.
For detailed information, click here.
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Are you or someone you know struggling with addiction and recovery and want to learn about available resources and supports? You can now connect with a Bureau of Behavioral Health (BBH) Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) at your local library. All conversations are anonymous and confidential. Drop in, no registration required.
Peer Recovery Specialists will be available at several HCLS branches on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 am - 4:00 pm.
Click here for a full schedule.
Peer Recovery Specialists can be contacted directly on their confidential line, 667-203-1253 or 667-203-1264.
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The Primary Behavioral Health and Early Intervention division of the Maryland Department of Health Behavioral Health Administration is responsible for creating a system of care for young people and their families, from early childhood to adulthood (age range 0-25 years old). This system addresses the needs of individuals with mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or both.
Click here for more information.
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The Mental Health Community Action Council (MHCAC) is excited to share their very first edition of the MHCAC Newsletter. Inside, you’ll find valuable resources, tips, and supports for children and families as the new school year begins.
Click here to read the newsletter and explore available resources.
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Pregnant or just had a baby? The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is free, confidential, and here to help, 24/7.
Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA
Click here for more information.
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If you are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988. Maryland veterans and their loved ones can call 988 and press 1 to transfer to the Veterans Crisis Line. Press 2 for Spanish.
Learn more at 988.maryland.gov and access free community outreach materials in the 988 Toolkit.
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The Howard County Health Department (HCHD) offers free virtual training on Narcan.
In-person Narcan training is also available at the HCHD van.
Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays
Times: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Location: 8930 Stanford Blvd. Columbia, MD 21045
Phone: 410-313-6202
Email: orpresponse@howardcountymd.gov
Register here for the virtual training.
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