Bethesda Cares Inc

“One of Bethesda Cares' highest priorities is to prevent homelessness in the first place. Through our Housing Stabilization Program (eviction prevention), we assist county wide keeping area residents safe in their homes with their utilities turned on. Collaborating with a network of local providers, we partner to package grant assistance to county residents under severe financial distress. Our Eviction Prevention Manager reviews each request from an individual requesting rent support...” That’s directly from their website. I contacted this agency for assistance regarding an impending eviction as a Montgomery County resident, and this was their response: “Our program only provides assistance to clients with a documented history of homelessness in Montgomery County and therefore an HMIS number. After searching your first name (redacted) in the database, I see you do not have this. My recommendation would be to call 3-1-1 to ask for financial and legal assistance from the county directly. Due to the things happening at the federal level, I am unsure of any resources to refer you to outside of calling 3-1-1 directly.” This restriction is not stated anywhere on their website. In fact, the wording heavily implies that they help prevent homelessness—meaning people who are at risk of becoming homeless, not just those with a documented history of it. I’m reporting this agency for misleading the public and potentially misrepresenting its services to donors and grant providers. How exactly are you “preventing homelessness” if someone has to already be homeless first? This kind of gatekeeping hurts real people who are trying to stay housed. It deserves serious scrutiny.

Don't go to 7728 Woodmont Ave for food. Food is supposed given out at "Church of Bethesda." Nearest bus stop is Old Georgetown and Cordell. I tried to get food and I was scolded by the ill-tempered staff. The staff scolded me that I was "too late" rather than apologizing for running out of food. It was only 10 minutes after 11am. Then, he continued to scold me saying that I was at the wrong entrance. There is no signage at the church indicating or specifying an entrance.

As a client for Bethesda cares I can truly say they are about what they say in helping the most vunerable, I was skeptical at first to work with them as I dont trust many agency's but this is one that truly cares about there clients well-being..Gabe and Lydia are true warriors and helpful in any way and every way. I would be in way worse shape in my life without there help. God bless this organization when I get back on my feet which I am sure I will with Bethesda cares help, I'm going to definitely support them in any way to help others in need.

They have no interest in helping clients in need. Twice they invited me to drop in to discuss resources. Both times I struggled to overcome crippling circumstances in order to show up. Both times I was turned away at the door, referred to unsupportive agencies more than an hour away, outside the city. Do yourself a favor, don't pin any hopes on these people helping you. If your situation is dire, you undoubtedly don't need the additional frustration and disappointment.

Wonderful management of thanksgiving lunch at Bethesda Presbyterian Church. Great group of volunteers from all over incurring families and visitors from as far away as Oregon. Blake does a superb job of managing all the food which included4 meats, Mac and cheese, plus all the trimmings nd deserts