Temporary Relocation Creates Permanent Friendships

inte8821 • March 29, 2016

What began as the need to modernize a senior apartment building in downtown Frederick quickly turned into an inspiring collaboration that involved Frederick County government, local organizations and businesses.

Weinberg House, IHA’s senior facility in Frederick, required an elevator upgrade and the addition of several safety features to bathrooms in each of the 23 apartments. These safety additions included tub conversions, the installation of grab bars and removable showerheads.

To complete the work in the fastest, safest way possible, the senior residents were relocated for three weeks thanks to the generosity of Plamondon Hospitality Partners, Tranquillity of Fredericktowne, Community Living, and family members. The relocation was a significant endeavor coordinated by Interfaith Housing Alliance staff with tremendous support from the community.

The YMCA of Frederick County utilized their Head Start vans for transportation. Volunteers from On Our Own, Frederick Random Acts of Kindness, Potomac Case Management, Frederick Rescue Mission and Beacon House residents, IHA staff, family and friends all helped residents move out and then move back into the building three weeks later. Each resident also had a dedicated volunteer to assist in packing and unpacking.

“Without a doubt, the entire process would not have unfolded so smoothly without the generosity and assistance from many in our community,” said Patricia Motter, President and CEO of IHA. “So many gave so selflessly to make the transition successful.”

The residents appreciated it, too. Weinberg resident Donald Lyles said, “One word sums it up, excellent! The volunteers were courteous and had a positive outlook.”

The bonds that were formed over these few weeks will no doubt carry forward as the residents settle in back home. “The outpouring of support for our seniors was heart-warming,” said Mary Ellen Mitchell, Director of Community Relations for IHA. “These volunteers exemplify the spirit of community in Frederick, as our clients bonded with them.”

Both Motter and Mitchell expressed a desire to foster further connections between their seniors and the community.

For more information on how you can volunteer for a variety of IHA initiatives, please visit our Facebook page at Interfaith Housing Alliance or call our office at 301.662.4225.

2025 Out of Reach

By Jodie Ostoich • September 8, 2025
Maryland and Frederick County: A Growing Housing Affordability Crisis Each year around this time, I share data that highlights the growing challenge of housing affordability in Maryland—and this year is no exception. Maryland now ranks as the 8th most expensive state in terms of wages needed to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment. A worker must earn $39.15 per hour —or nearly $81,450 annually —just to meet that threshold. Unfortunately, the situation in Frederick County is even more severe. Alongside Calvert and Charles counties, Frederick tops the list, requiring a staggering $44.50 per hour —equivalent to $92,560 annually —to afford a two-bedroom apartment.  Meanwhile, the average renter in Frederick earns just $18.25 per hour , which translates to an affordable rent of only $949 per month —far below what the market demands. This stark disparity is exactly why the mission of Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is so critical. We are committed to addressing these inequities and advocating for solutions that make safe, stable housing accessible to all. Below, you’ll find the 2025 data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition , detailing housing affordability across Maryland and its counties.

Fall Newsletter Grant Updates

By Rachel Gardner • September 8, 2025
Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce two funding awards received this quarter from community partners. In July 2025, IHA received a $3,500 grant from The Croteau Family Charitable Gift Fund, which is a donor-advised fund (DAF) held at T. Rowe Price Charitable. IHA also received a $5,000 grant from The Natelli Communities Charitable Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These unrestricted funds will support all of IHA’s endeavors in strengthening the many communities we serve.

Build Confidence With Your Finances at Financial Freedom Bootcamp

By Lacy Allen • September 8, 2025
Money can sometimes feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to! This October, Interfaith Housing Alliance is offering our next Financial Freedom Bootcamp, a free, two-part workshop designed to help you take positive steps toward financial stability and confidence.  The bootcamp kicks off with an in-person workshop on October 15th from 5:30–7:00pm, where participants will explore the building blocks of financial health. You’ll learn how to create a budget that actually works for your lifestyle, discover the best practices for saving, and walk away with strategies for reducing debt in realistic and manageable ways. After the first session, participants are invited to take part in an optional virtual Credit Café, a supportive space to dive deeper into questions about credit and money management. This extra resource helps reinforce what you’ve learned and gives you the chance to connect with others working toward similar goals. The second workshop will be held virtually on October 29th from 5:30–7:00pm, making it convenient to join from home. This session will focus on building confidence when communicating with creditors, understanding your credit, and setting SMART goals to stay on track for the future. Together, these two sessions provide practical, easy-to-use tools to support your financial journey. No matter where you are starting from—whether you’re new to budgeting, trying to rebuild your credit, or just looking for ways to feel more in control—Financial Freedom Bootcamp is a welcoming and encouraging place to begin. At a Glance What : Financial Freedom Bootcamp – free, two-part workshop series When: October 15th (in-person) & October 29th (virtual), both 5:30–7:00pm Topics: Budgeting, saving, debt reduction, credit confidence, SMART goal setting Extras: Optional virtual Credit Café between sessions Register: Contact Lacy Allen at lames@interfaithhousing.org or 301-662-4425 ext. 1203
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