Get Help
Looking for school supplies?
Our region is fortunate to have many school supply initiatives that take place at the end of each summer. A Wider Circle will now direct families requesting school supplies to these initiatives and discontinue our annual backpack
drive. We made this decision after consulting with volunteers, neighbors, and other nonprofits. By suspending this program, we are able to direct time and resources to other programs that fill unmet needs.
We encourage you to look at this database for alternative places where you might find a backpack of school supplies for your child.
Furniture & Home Goods
A Wider Circle’s Essential Support program provides home furnishings — including beds, dressers, dining tables, chairs, and couches — to anyone in need, free-of-charge. In addition to furniture, we also provide dishes, linens, pots and pans, baby items, and more — all of the essentials you need to turn your house or apartment into a home.
All of the items we distribute are in “dignity condition,” meaning they are gently-used and free of rips, stains, or broken pieces.
We are happy to provide you and your family with the items you need. There are no eligibility or referral requirements. All services are by appointment at our Center for Community Service in Silver Spring.
Professional Clothing
At our Professional Development Center, we provide professional clothing free of charge for you to wear to job interviews or on the job.
Our personal shoppers help you select the right outfits that work best for you. Available attire includes suits, dresses, blazers, dress shirts and blouses, ties, purses, jewelry, and shoes to ensure a complete look.
The Professional Development Center is located within our Center for Community Service in Silver Spring. All services are by appointment.
Career Support
Our Career Support program uses a holistic, strength-based, and customized approach to emphasize each individual’s values and strengths. Connect with fellow job seekers and gain networking experience, receive individualized support and career counseling, and attend workshops on topics ranging from job search and interviewing strategies to self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Clients can also choose from our roster of certified professional coaches to partner with as you maximize your personal and professional potential.
Support in Ward 8
At our Ward 8 Hub in DC’s Washington Highlands, we provide a wide range of wraparound programming. Select services include:
- Career counseling and workshops
- Health and wellness classes
- Family enrichment
- Financial literacy workshops
- Microgrants for community led initiatives
- Community Advisory Council convening
The Ward 8 Hub is also home to the second cohort of our long-term support program, Partnership to Independence.
