Bethesda Cares (www.bethesdacares.org) helps people suffering chronic homelessness find paths to safe, permanent housing, while also easing their lives through its Drop-In Center, daily hot meal program, clothing closet and mental health services. Bethesda Cares also works directly with landlords and utility companies to prevent low-income residents from spiraling into homelessness.
Serves: Montgomery County
What a donation buys:
$250 provides hot, nutritious meals for 41 people.
$1,000 serves as a security deposit for a newly-housed client.
$10,000 sponsors five months of psychiatric support for dozens of chronically homeless individuals battling mental illness or needing some extra emotional support.
Volunteer opportunities
One day: Organize a drive for socks, coffee, tea, non-perishable food, seasonal clothing and toiletries.
Ongoing: Prepare and/or serve hot, nutritious meals for neighbors at risk of hunger, or create bagged lunches for clients to take with them.
Internships
Student Service Learning hours