Community Resources in Washington County, MD
Life's challenges are easier to navigate when you know you have a strong community to lean on. That's why we created this comprehensive resource guide. We know that finding the right help can be overwhelming, and we are committed to making that process easier for you and your loved ones. Our mission is to strengthen our community by ensuring every member has access to the support they need to thrive.
You are not alone. Every day, many people across Washington County turn to 211 for information, referral, and support — whether for financial assistance, health programs, and more. The 211 Information & Referral Line is a FREE and confidential resource available 24/7/365.
We’re always here to help. You can call us, text us, or chat with us on our website. You can also view our online database of resources yourself. You can search for up-to-date local, state, and national resources for food and housing assistance, mental health, family support services, health and wellness, and more.
If you or someone you know needs help finding food or clothing in Washington County, MD, you’re not alone. Our community offers a variety of programs and organizations dedicated to supporting individuals and families during difficult times. Below, you’ll find local resources—including food pantries, community meals, clothing closets, and emergency assistance programs—ready to provide help when it’s needed most.
At United Way, we believe that a stable home is foundational to a strong community — and no one in our area should face housing insecurity alone. From emergency shelters and rapid rehousing programs to long-term affordable housing assistance and supports that help individuals and families sustain a home, the network of services here is built to meet people where they are and guide them toward stability.
Our county-wide housing ecosystem includes organizations such as the Hagerstown Area Religious Council (HARC), which lists local shelters, rapid rehousing, and housing case management services on its website. Agencies like Reach of Washington County offer day resource & client assistance, cold-weather shelter, utility or rent-deposit aid, and other housing-related supports. Washington County Community Action Council (CAC) provides housing case management services to those who are housed, about to lose housing, or transitioning out of homelessness. Meanwhile, the Hagerstown Housing Authority and the Housing Authority of Washington County continue to work to provide decent, safe, and affordable housing across the county.
Together, these resources reflect the county’s commitment to prevention (helping residents avoid losing their homes), intervention (supporting those who are homeless or imminently at risk), and sustainment (assisting residents in maintaining housing stability and accessing affordable options).
Key Housing & Shelter Resources in Washington County
- Housing Guide - This extensive list of housing and property management agencies is brought to you by our partners at Washington County Community Action Council.
- Homeless Street Guide - A quick reference to give out to homeless individuals and families in Washington County. This is a 3-per-page resource small enough to fit in your pocket!
- Shelters in Washington County - A detailed list of local shelters, their requirements, and the services that they offer.
Everyone has mental health, but social stigma and lack of access to care prevent millions from getting the support they need to thrive.
That’s why United Way partners with healthcare providers, educators, and grassroots leaders to create more equitable, compassionate mental health support systems. From peer connection programs to crisis care and trauma-informed resources, we're ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be well—no matter where they live or what they’ve been through.
If you are seeking mental health or substance abuse services, our community partner Meritus Health, has created an extensive list of providers in the tri-state area.
Mental Health & Substance Abuse Resources
Transportation should be a support—not a barrier—to accessing work, health care, education, and community life. In Washington County, Maryland, residents can access a variety of local services designed to meet different mobility needs. Whether you need a bus route, paratransit for disability or age limitations, ride assistance, or help reaching a medical appointment, the resources below provide dependable options to help you stay connected.
Washington County Transit (WCT) Fixed-Route Bus Service
- WCT operates multiple fixed urban bus routes originating in Hagerstown, Maryland, and serving areas like Funkstown, Halfway, Long Meadow, Maugansville, Robinwood, Smithsburg, and Williamsport.
- Provides safe, affordable, and accessible mass transportation to enhance mobility for residents.
- Schedule information, route & map documents are available on the Washington County, MD website Transit page.
Tip: If you rely on a fixed bus route, check route maps ahead of time to plan your trip, especially for early mornings or later evenings when service may vary.
ADA Complementary Paratransit Service
- Operated by Washington County Transit (WCT), the ADA Complementary Paratransit service is for individuals certified as unable to use the fixed-route buses.
- One-way fare is $2.00 for eligible riders (a PCA — personal care assistant — may ride free when accompanying a certified rider).
- Hours of service: Monday-Friday 6:15 a.m.–9:15 p.m.; Saturday 7:45 a.m.–9:15 p.m.; there is no service on Sundays.
- Service area: trips must originate & end within about ¾-mile of the fixed‐route system.
- For more information, contact Washington County Transit at 240-313-2750
Tip: If you or someone you support has mobility limitations or cannot use standard buses, this service can provide door-to-door or curb-to-curb rides — plan to submit eligibility documentation and schedule rides in advance.
Ride Assist Voucher Program
- WCT offers a Ride Assist Program with vouchers that help eligible individuals (age 60+ or persons with disabilities) access taxis or registered ride services at a reduced cost.
- Users must apply annually; vouchers expire June 30 each year.
- This is particularly helpful when fixed-route buses or paratransit are not convenient or available.
Tip: If you’re 60+ or have a disability and occasionally need flexible transportation (e.g., for errands or outside usual service hours), this voucher program may be handy.
Washington County Community Action Council, Inc. — Transportation for the Elderly, Disabled & Low-Income
- Through its Community Action Transit (CAT) program, this organization provides transportation services for elderly, disabled, and low-income residents of Washington County.
- They also operate the “Hopewell Express” free employment shuttle for workers in the Hopewell Road business corridor in Hagerstown.
- For more information, contact the Washington County Community Action Council at 301-797-4191 ext. 107 or visit their website.
United Way of Washington County — Ride United Network
- In collaboration with Lyft and Community Partners, Ride United provides convenient round-trip, on-demand Lyft rides. These rides connect community members to essential services such as education, employment, healthcare, and legal assistance, providing a reliable, stress-free transportation solution.
- Program is only open to Washington County, MD residents, and rides must originate in Washington County, MD.
- For more information, visit the Ride United Network page on our website.