Hagerstown, MD  (January 7, 2025) –  Children In Need, Inc. marked a milestone year in 2024, celebrating 25 years of dedicated service to the Washington County community. As the leading organization providing free clothing, hygiene items, and essential resources to children, Children In Need faced an unprecedented surge in demand, reflecting the growing challenges local families face in poverty. Despite these hurdles, the organization rose to the occasion with resilience, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to its mission.

“This year has been a testament to the strength and generosity of our community,” said Brittany Wedd, Executive Director. “Together, with our supporters, volunteers, and partners, we ensured that thousands of children and families in Washington County had access to the resources they need to thrive.”

Client Services Program: Meeting Unprecedented Needs

In 2024, Children In Need’s Client Services Program made a profound impact by distributing 197,068 essential items to children and families in Washington County. This vital program experienced a significant 40% increase in enrolled children, reaching a peak of 3,063 children across 1,265 households. The surge in demand reflects the growing challenges faced by families living in poverty, and our team remained steadfast in meeting these needs with compassion and efficiency. By providing free clothing, hygiene products, school supplies, shoes, coats, and more, Children In Need helped ensure that thousands of children had access to the basic necessities that foster stability, dignity, and educational success.

Extended Services Program: Addressing Urgent Requests

Through collaborations with school counselors and community partners, the Extended Services Program distributed 12,657 items to children in need of support or facing crises such as homelessness, domestic violence, and economic hardship. Items were provided to all Washington County Public Schools, including remote locations like Cascade, Hancock, and Clear Spring,  as well as to key community organizations like Girls, Inc., Bester Community of Hope, and to the United Way of Washington County hygiene pantry, ensuring support reached children beyond the classroom.

Volunteer Services: The Heart of Our Mission

Operating with just three staff members, Children In Need relies heavily on its volunteers. In 2024, volunteers contributed 9,827.25 hours of service, valued at $329,114.60. These efforts were critical to sorting donations, assisting families, and fulfilling urgent requests.

Winter Weather and Holiday Support

Over 3,300 winter coats, hats, gloves, and snowsuits were distributed to ensure children stayed warm during the harsh winter months, while more than 3,000 toys and books were provided to brighten the holiday season. These efforts were further enhanced by the Frosty Fest family engagement event, held in partnership with the Hagerstown Housing Authority.

Special Programs and Initiatives

Through the generosity of Julie Gaver of Soles of Love, 2,226 pairs of new shoes were donated to Children In Need, with many distributed during the One Foot Up shoe distribution event and others continuing to be provided through the Client and Extended Service Programs, empowering children with confidence and comfort. In partnership with Washington County Public Schools, the WCPS Meal Machine distributed 1,889 free meals at the Children In Need location during summer 2024. Additionally, 707 children benefited from the Back-to-School Voucher Program, each receiving a $40 Walmart voucher for first-day-of-school outfits, fostering confidence and readiness for the academic year.

By the Numbers: Poverty in Washington County

An analysis of household income levels revealed that 76% of families served fall into the “Extremely Low Income” category, earning less than 30% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Another 17% are classified as "Low Income," earning between 30-50% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, and 5.9% fall into the "Moderate Income" category, earning between 50-80% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. These stark realities highlight the critical role Children In Need plays in alleviating financial burdens for families by providing essential resources.

Voices of Impact

At Children In Need, Inc., we understand the tough decisions families face every day. For many, it’s a matter of choosing between paying rent or buying groceries, keeping the heat on or purchasing clothing and hygiene items for their children. Through our programs, we offer free clothing and essentials, alleviating some of the financial burdens families experience and allowing them to invest in other critical needs, such as food, housing, and healthcare. 

Families and partners have praised the organization for its profound impact. As one client shared, “Now we can put food on the table.” Another client stated, “Children In Need has such a profound impact in our community, all year long and especially during this time when many are stressing and struggling; so things like what you have done for me and my children, help keep that light lit inside of us.”. Last year, a collaborative partner reflected, “I've worked in a number of communities in a number of states and in a number of capacities for the last 20+ years. I've never seen an organization like Children In Need that does what they do.” These words affirm the invaluable support we provide to families in poverty. 

Looking Ahead

As Children In Need reflects on its 25th year, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing poverty and supporting families in Washington County. “While poverty is a complex issue, our programs offer a lifeline to families, ensuring children have the resources they need to succeed,” said Brittany Wedd, Executive Director. “We are deeply honored to be part of their journey and will continue to provide unwavering support in the years to come.”

For more information or to support Children In Need, Inc., please visit www.childreninneedwc.org or contact Brittany Wedd at Brittany@childreninneedwc.org.

About Children In Need, Inc. Founded in 1998, Children In Need, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that strives to provide each Washington County, MD child living at or below the federally recognized poverty level essential items and educational supplies to ensure their success in school. Through its programs and community partnerships, Children In Need empowers families, fosters educational success, and creates pathways to economic stability.