A LETTER FROM OUR CEO
Dear Friends,
Behind every gap in our community is a neighbor: a parent stretching a paycheck, a senior who needs a safe place to sleep. At Interfaith Works, we look for those gaps and find ways we can help close them.
As the needs of our neighbors evolve and reveal these gaps, our programs must change with them. We continue to adapt and grow our services so that we can meet people where they are and provide the support that helps our neighbors move toward greater stability.
Earlier this month, we opened the IW Men’s Center at our Crabbs Branch location, providing a new safe and supportive shelter for 60 men experiencing homelessness. Opening this shelter is one example of how we are responding to the growing need for safe housing in our community. It also represents an important reminder that providing shelter means more than offering a bed and a roof over someone’s head. It means making sure our guests have the food, care, and resources to move forward while they are with us.
THIS MONTH IN IW NEWS
We’re proud to share that earlier this month Interfaith Works was named “Large Nonprofit of the Year” by the Gaithersburg Germantown Upcounty Chamber of Commerce!
This recognition celebrates the impact Interfaith Works makes across our community every day—and that impact is only possible because of the generous donors, dedicated volunteers, partners, and staff who stand alongside us. We are grateful to be honored by this wonderful Chamber.
Thank you for helping make this work possible. Together, we’re creating stronger, more connected communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
IW PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
A home is the foundation. Support helps make it possible to stay there.
Interfaith Works’ Community Supportive Housing (CSH) Program provides permanent, scattered-site housing and ongoing support for individuals and families who have experienced homelessness.
Our case managers meet residents where they are — in their homes and throughout the community — helping them navigate challenges, connect with resources, and build the stability they need to remain housed. Residents can also connect with other IW programs, including Vocational Services and Connections, to access employment support, financial assistance, and other essential resources.
In FY26, CSH supported more than 200 individuals and families in building and maintaining stable, independent lives in their communities.
IW IN THE COMMUNITY
Interfaith Works was proud to be part of FOX 5 DC’s Zip Trip in Rockville, celebrating all that makes our community special! Our CEO, Lauren Puryear, joined meteorologist Tucker Barnes for an interview highlighting the work of Interfaith Works and our commitment to supporting individuals and families throughout Montgomery County.
We’re grateful for opportunities like this to share our mission, connect with our community, and shine a light on the people and programs making a difference every day.
WATCH THE SEGMENT HERE! (Timestamp 2:24)
Interfaith Works was honored to join community members for the opening of the Colores Exhibition at BlackRock Center for the Arts, located in Germantown, celebrating the start of Hispanic Heritage Month through art, culture, creativity, and joy.
We are especially proud that four graduates of the Interfaith Works Stitches That Transform seamstress program were selected to have their artwork featured in this year’s exhibition. Their creativity, talent, and dedication are a wonderful reflection of the opportunities created through this program.
The evening was a beautiful reminder of how art can bring people together, celebrate diverse cultures, and create meaningful moments of connection.
The Colores Exhibition is open through October 15. We encourage you to visit and experience the incredible work of these local artists!
BY THE NUMBERS
In FY26:
11,112 Bed nights
Provided
In FY26 the IW Shelter and Drop-In Center at Progress Place provided 11,112 bed nights to shelter guests.
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Your support makes our work possible—and your time can make an even greater impact. Every day, volunteers help welcome community members at our Essential Needs Center, prepare and serve meals to clients at our Emergency Shelters and Shared Supportive Housing locations, organize donation drives, and bring hope to neighbors on their path to stability. Whether you have a few hours each month on your own or want to volunteer with a group, there's a meaningful way to get involved.
Join fellow volunteers and help create brighter futures for Montgomery County neighbors.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join us in celebrating and supporting the graduates of our Stitches that Transform Seamstress Class at their Artisan Market at the IW Essential Needs Center (751 Twinbrook Pkwy.) on Saturday October 3 from 11am-1pm!
Projects and pieces from the graduates will be available for purchase. Items can be purchased with cash, or via Zelle, CashApp or Venmo. You can also bring in clothing items for tailoring. Entry is free. We hope to see you there!
DONATE NOW
SUPPORT OUR MEN’S CENTER!
Our Men’s Shelter is in urgent need of food and monetary donations! Every day, the 60 residents of the IW Men’s Center need nutritious food. Our goal is to raise $5,000 a month to keep essential food supplies on hand when a volunteer meal is not available. Help us reach our monthly goal to ensure we can provide for our residents adequately.