This holiday season, many Washington County families, seniors, and medically vulnerable residents are facing a harsh winter without the help they need to keep their homes warm. With a drastic 76% cut in Maryland state funding, over a million dollars will be missing from the energy assistance available to those in critical need in our county. The Washington County Community Action Council has stepped up to launch the “Heat for the Holidays” campaign, calling on our community to contribute to a $50,000 fund to ensure that no one faces the cold alone. We ask that you consider supporting this effort. Together, we can keep Washington County warm and safe this winter.

Go to our donate page to help, today!

Habitat for Humanity Washington County Announces Strategic Partnership with Washington County Community Action Council

Hagerstown, MD — Habitat for Humanity Washington County is excited to announce a new strategic partnership with the Washington County Community Action Council (CAC), a move designed to strengthen and expand Habitat’s mission of providing safe, affordable housing in Washington County. After the resignation of Habitat’s previous Director due to health issues and as part of this collaboration, Tim Fisher, CEO of CAC, will assume the role of Executive Facilitator. Fisher will be directing the day-to-day operations for Habitat for Humanity Washington County. Fisher brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit management, housing development, and community services, making him an ideal leader to guide Habitat through this period of growth and innovation.

“This partnership is a natural alignment of our missions,” said Fisher. “By combining the strengths and resources of both organizations, we can reduce operational costs and focus even more on delivering safe, affordable homes to those in need in our community.”

The partnership also means that Habitat for Humanity will benefit from the expertise of CAC’s skilled team, including specialists in finance, compliance, grant management, social work, and retail management. This collaboration will enable Habitat to enhance its operations and serve more families in Washington County.

“We’re excited about the opportunities this partnership brings,” said Matt Jozik, president of Habitat for Humanity Washington County’s Board of Directors. “With CAC’s support, we are confident that we can continue to make a significant impact on housing in our community.”

The transition will focus initially on enhancing operations and supporting Habitat’s dedicated staff, with a long-term goal of growing and expanding Habitat’s capacity to serve the community. The partnership is set to be reviewed in six months, with the option to renew the collaboration for additional terms.

Habitat for Humanity Washington County remains committed to its mission and looks forward to this new chapter of growth and collaboration.

For more information, please contact Habitat for Humanity Washington County at 301-791-9009 or www.habitat-wc.org

Celebrating Partnership: Zion Baptist Church and the Circles Program

The Washington County Community Action Council’s Circles Program is grateful to Zion Baptist Church for their heartfelt support! Recently, the church provided a warm meal and meaningful service to our Circles participants, embodying the spirit of community and care. This act of generosity goes beyond just food—it offers connection, encouragement, and hope for those working to achieve financial stability and self-sufficiency.

But what is the Circles Program?

Circles USA is a transformative initiative designed to reduce poverty and empower individuals and families. Through a combination of mentoring, goal setting, and support, Circles brings together people from all walks of life to tackle systemic barriers to success. Participants (Circle Leaders) are paired with community allies who offer guidance, resources, and encouragement to help them achieve their dreams and break the cycle of poverty.

Zion Baptist Church’s involvement is a shining example of how local partnerships can make a lasting impact. Thank you for your kindness and commitment to helping our community thrive!

If you’re inspired to learn more or get involved, call us at 301-797-4161 and ask for Elise. Together, we can create pathways to brighter futures!

🎉 Celebrating a New Circles Cohort Graduation! 🎓

Last night, we celebrated a truly special milestone: another Circles cohort successfully completing their training! These remarkable individuals have dedicated weeks of hard work, learning, and growth to take bold steps toward breaking the cycle of poverty and building brighter futures for themselves and their families.

The journey through Circles isn’t just about financial stability—it’s about empowerment, connection, and realizing potential. Each graduate has shown incredible courage and determination to step into a new chapter of their lives, equipped with tools, knowledge, and a network of support to achieve their goals.

To our graduates: we are so proud of you! Your success inspires us and proves that with perseverance and community, anything is possible.

Thank you to our amazing Circles Allies, staff, and community partners who make this program life-changing. Together, we are creating pathways to lasting change.

Older Adults Facing Rising Poverty Rates: A Growing Concern

Recent data highlights a troubling trend in the United States: poverty among older adults is on the rise again. According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau report, the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) shows that the poverty rate for adults aged 65 and older increased significantly in 2022, reaching 14.1%, up from 9.5% the previous year. This marks the largest year-to-year increase since the SPM was first introduced.

The causes are multifaceted. Factors like the end of pandemic-era financial supports, rising healthcare costs, inflation, and the increasing cost of living have created financial strain for many seniors living on fixed incomes. For older adults, the reality of poverty often includes difficult choices—between food, medication, housing, and other essentials.

This rising poverty rate underscores the urgent need for targeted community resources, advocacy, and sustainable policy solutions to ensure older Americans can age with dignity and security.

At the Washington County Community Action Council, we’re committed to addressing these challenges. Whether through energy assistance, affordable housing programs, or food support, we strive to be a lifeline for older adults in our community.

Join us in making a difference! Learn how you can support seniors in need, here on our website.