A Network of Volunteers in
the Gaithersburg Community
Serving Gaithersburg Residents in Need
Since 1968
"Neighbor Helping Neighbor"


About Gaithersburg HELP

 
Gaithersburg HELP ("HELP") has been serving the Gaithersburg community for 40+ years, an impressive accomplishment for an organization that operates as an ALL VOLUNTEER organization.
 
How Gaithersburg HELP serves those in need:
 
FOOD… HELP provides a three-day supply of food based on family size from our local food pantry by appointment.
 
INFANT NEEDS… HELP provides diapers and infant formula for short- term emergencies.
 
PRESCRIPTIONS… HELP assists with emergency medical needs such as medicines.
 
TRANSPORTATION… HELP assists with transportation to medical appointments and social service agencies.
 
OTHER FINANCIAL NEEDS… HELP considers other emergency needs on a case by case basis to help families over a short period crisis.
 
SUPPORT AND REFERRAL… HELP listens and offers guidance to identify other resources that clients may access during the stress and confusion of an emergency. This includes referrals for rent, utility bills, clothing, and furniture needs.
 
During 2009, Gaithersburg HELP provided assistance for more than 6,300 emergency situations:
  • providing 3,925 food packages containing a 3-5 day supply of food
  • paying for 938 essential medications
  • providing 1,260 diaper/formula packages
  • providing 549 rides to medical/social service appointments
 
In 1968, the faith community of Gaithersburg recognized that emergencies happen quickly and government assistance takes time. To meet these immediate needs, congregations of churches and synagogues formed Gaithersburg HELP to provide short-term assistance in a coordinated fashion.
 
Now more than 25 congregations join in this network to help neighbors in the greater Gaithersburg community. Gaithersburg HELP also receives substantial support from private individuals, local businesses, and civic organizations.
 
All services are provided by a network of nearly 200 volunteers, who work together in a common concern for others as an expression of love for their neighbors.
 
Gaithersburg HELP operates under an Executive Committee and Board of Directors. The Board of Directors consists of a delegate from each member congregation. The Executive Committee meets monthly and the Board of Directors meets bi-monthly (with the exception of no meetings in June, July and August). Meetings are open to anyone who is interested. Member congregations contribute all administrative expenses and support HELP with volunteers, food drives and operating funds.
 
As the community continues to grow, so too do the demands on Gaithersburg HELP.

 Contributions can be made via:

                                     

 CFC #30374  

  

                        

                   United Way #8432

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