Supporting Our Community in Turbulent Times

In times of change and uncertainty, access to reliable information and supportive resources is more important than ever. This page is dedicated to providing Silver Spring residents with essential services, guidance, and assistance to ensure everyone—regardless of background, status, or identity—feels safe, informed, and supported. Whether you are seeking legal resources, mental health support, employment opportunities, or crisis services, our goal is to connect you with the help you need.

​The Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce remains committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and resilient community for all.

Employment Assistance

Montgomery County Government Careers: 
​​Explore current career opportunities with Montgomery County Government. Open roles span across departments and include both entry-level and experienced positions.
Montgomery County Public Schools Careers:
MCPS is hiring educators, support staff, and substitute teachers. Federal employees with transferable skills are encouraged to apply.
Montgomery College – Resources for the Federal Workforce:
​​Montgomery College offers workshops, job training, and workforce development resources designed to help displaced federal employees reenter the job market or change careers.​
​Maryland Public Servants Resource Website:
​A centralized site created by the State of Maryland offering reemployment help, mental health resources, and financial aid for public servants across agencies.​
​Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Federal Workforce Resource Webpage:
​​This regional hub includes resources for federal employees in the D.C. area, including job portals, financial help, and training opportunities.​
Partnership for Public Service – Federal Employee Resource Hub:
​A nonprofit support center providing resources for laid-off or transitioning federal workers, including legal assistance, emotional health tools, and upskilling options.​
​Civil Service Strong:
​A worker-led community initiative that provides legal aid, solidarity networks, and advocacy for civil servants affected by unjust terminations or cuts.​

​United in Service and Support: Online Informational Series

The Montgomery County Council has launched the “United in Service and Support” virtual informational series to support federal workers and community members impacted by federal-level challenges. These biweekly webinars feature expert panelists discussing topics such as housing, energy assistance, employment, food access, and more.
Residents can submit questions anonymously in advance or live during each session, and Councilmembers will address as many as possible during the event.

Upcoming Webinar Topics and Dates:
  • Wednesday, May 28 at 7 p.m. – Home Energy Costs and Assistance Programs for Montgomery County Residents
  • Wednesday, June 4 at 11:30 a.m. – Housing Accessibility and Affordability
  • Wednesday, June 11 at 7 p.m. – Local Law Enforcement Resources for Eviction, Domestic Violence and Child Support
  • Thursday, June 26 at 7 p.m. – Community Food Resources for our Residents
  • Wednesday, July 9 at 7 p.m. – Non-profit Services, Unemployment Benefits, and Constituent Services
  • Wednesday, July 23 at 7 p.m. – Navigating the Workforce of 2025 and Beyond: Emerging Industries and Hiring Trends​
Residents can participate in real time or view past recordings here.

Federal Worker Support

Maryland state leaders continue to take action in response to mass federal layoffs, with recent legislation and budget allocations designed to protect displaced workers: A recent virtual town hall with Congressman Jamie Raskin addressed many community questions—watch the recording here.

Governor Wes Moore's Pitch to Fired Federal Employees: "Come Work for the State" 

In an article written in the Washington Post by Katie Shepherd and Katie Mettler, Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced a multi-pronged initiative to support federal workers who recently lost their jobs due to mass layoffs initiated by the Trump administration. Speaking in Annapolis, Moore condemned the firings as "cruelty" and introduced several new state resources aimed at helping displaced federal employees transition into state roles. These include:
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  • State job opportunities: With over 5,000 vacancies and 250 current postings, Maryland is actively seeking to hire.
  • New pilot program: Led by the Transportation Department, this initiative will help translate federal experience into qualifications for state agency jobs.
  • Pathways to education careers: Displaced workers are encouraged to pursue teaching certifications to help fill the state's shortage of 12,000–15,000 teachers.
  • Job fairs: Both virtual and in-person events will be hosted in Prince George's County and Baltimore.
  • New job search website: Aggregates over 130,000 job openings statewide and streamlines the application process.

The effort aims to both reduce the high vacancy rate in state government and support Marylanders facing sudden unemployment. Moore's plan aligns with similar efforts in states like Virginia, New York, and Hawaii. Senator Chris Van Hollen also voiced concern over the impact of the layoffs, emphasizing the critical services provided by federal workers.

A Message from Montgomery County Council President
​Kate Stewart

Montgomery County remains committed to fairness, justice, and equal treatment for all residents. In response to federal-level changes causing uncertainty, particularly among immigrant, LGBTQ+, and communities of color, Council President Kate Stewart reaffirms the county’s dedication to inclusion, privacy, and community trust. Law enforcement remains focused on public safety, not immigration enforcement, and county agencies do not collect immigration status when providing services.

Available Resources Montgomery County stands united in fostering an inclusive, safe, and supportive community for all.

Take Action: Advocacy & Support

Over the last several weeks, concerned Montgomery County Residents have been voicing their fears of the decisions by the Trump Administration that threaten families, our health, safety and livelihoods. Federal, state, and county leaders, have confirmed that they stand in solidarity and are committed to safeguarding our democracy and continuing their support for vital community priorities.
The Montgomery County Council President, Kate Stewart has stated, "In Montgomery County, we understand the many concerns and changes afflicting residents, and we remain resolute in upholding the fundamental rights of our residents. We are also united in service and support for all members of our community and remain committed to preserving the dignity and humanity of each resident."
"We will continue to take action against unconstitutional and illegal decisions made by this new administration and remain united in the fight to preserve fundamental rights and our authority to govern."
Three steps residents can take during these trying and confusing times include knowing your rights, learning about available resources, and reaching out for assistance. Below is information that can help. 
In addition to accessing vital resources, residents can advocate for their rights and concerns by reaching out to their elected officials. Our congressional, state, and county representatives are committed to assisting community members in navigating government processes, addressing policy concerns, and ensuring that every resident’s voice is heard.

Contact Your Federal Representatives

Montgomery County’s congressional delegation represents our community at the federal level, advocating for our rights and working to protect our interests. If you need assistance with federal programs, want to express concerns about policy changes, or wish to stay updated on legislative efforts, you can contact your representatives below:

Montgomery County Congressional Delegation
  • U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen – Info
  • U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks – Info
  • U.S. Congressman Jamie Raskin – Info
  • U.S. Congressman Glenn Ivey – Info
  • U.S. Congresswoman April McClain-Delaney – Info

How They Can Help: Your federal representatives can assist with:
  • Navigating federal agencies – Support for issues related to immigration, Social Security, veterans' benefits, federal retiree benefits, and other federal programs.
  • Legal rights and advocacy – Information on how to protect your rights in light of policy changes.
  • Federal workers and contractors – Resources for workers impacted by federal government transitions, including unemployment insurance and job assistance.

To find your federal representatives, visit here and enter your zip code.

​Contact Your State Representatives

Montgomery County’s delegation to the Maryland General Assembly plays an essential role in advocating for residents at the state level. They can help with concerns related to state agencies, policies, and benefits.
Montgomery County State Delegation
  • Senate Chair Benjamin Kramer – Info
  • House Chair Julie Palakovich Carr – Info
Use this interactive map to find your Maryland state senator and delegates.
How They Can Help:
Resources for federal workers and contractors
  • The Maryland Department of Labor offers information on resources like unemployment insurance benefits, career guidance and reemployment support for federal employees and other workers impacted by the federal government transition: visit here.
  • Maryland unemployment insurance – Assistance for federal workers and other employees affected by federal policies. Learn more at the Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance.
  • State program assistance – Help navigating health, education, housing, and social services in Maryland.
  • Advocacy on state policies – Ensuring Montgomery County’s needs are represented at the state level.​

Contact your Councilmembers

Your district and at-large Councilmembers can be a great resource to help you navigate public services and programs offered through Montgomery County agencies and departments. Find your Councilmember using this interactive map.

How they can help:

Protecting our immigrant community
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) has a district-wide policy that has been communicated to students and their families. MCPS will remain a safe and welcoming community for all students, regardless of a child’s immigration status. MCPS has shared protocols for what happens if immigration law enforcement officers come to a school, and other helpful information for families.

Support for the LGBTQ+ community
Montgomery County Pride provides a resource page for the LGBTQ+ community around “Knowing Your Rights” and other critical health and social services.

Food assistance resources
Montgomery County hosts regular food distribution events, offers free and reduced-price meals at school and provides options for meal and grocery delivery resources for seniors and others who may need assistance with transportation and preparation of meals.
Find a calendar of food distribution events and more information through the Montgomery County Office of Food Systems Resilience.
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Mental health support
If you or someone you know is in crisis, the Montgomery County Crisis Center offers free crisis services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Services are provided by telephone at (240) 777-4000 or in person at 1301 Piccard Dr. in Rockville (no appointment needed).  
Additional support services provided through the County are available by dialing 311 or visiting the Council’s community resource webpage.

Congressman Jamie Raskin: Advocacy and Support for Our Community

Congressman Jamie Raskin stands in firm opposition to recent federal actions that threaten democracy, civil rights, and essential public services. His commitment to protecting the rule of law, supporting federal workers, and defending immigrant and LGBTQIA+ communities remains unwavering.

Key issues addressed:
  • Federal Funding Freeze: Opposing unconstitutional attempts to withhold federal grants essential for programs like Head Start, Meals on Wheels, and Medicaid.
  • Support for Federal Workers: Defending the merit-based civil service and opposing political interference in federal employment.
  • Protecting Immigrant Rights: Providing resources like the Montgomery County Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center’s “Know Your Rights” information.
  • Standing with the LGBTQIA+ Community: Opposing executive orders restricting LGBTQIA+ rights, including policies targeting transgender Americans.

Congressman Raskin encourages unity and advocacy, emphasizing that resilience and collective action will uphold constitutional rights and community values.
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For more details and ongoing updates, visit Congressman Jamie Raskin’s dedicated resource page.

WSSC Water’s Get Current 2.0: Temporary Bill Amnesty Program
​

To support residents and businesses facing financial hardship, WSSC Water is launching Get Current 2.0, a temporary bill amnesty program running from March 1, 2025, through June 30, 2025. This initiative offers financial relief to eligible customers with delinquent water and sewer bills as of February 1, 2025.
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Key Benefits:
  • For Residential Customers Below 150% Area Median Income (AMI):
    • 50% bill credit for full delinquent balance payment, plus 100% waiver of late payment charges and turn-on fees.
    • 25% bill credit for paying 50% of the delinquent balance and completing a six-month payment plan.
 
  • For Residential Customers Above 150% AMI:
    • Eligible for 100% waiver of late payment charges and turn-on fees with full balance payment or 50% payment with the balance paid within six months.
 
  • For Commercial & Multi-Unit Residential Accounts with Master Meters:
    • 100% waiver of late payment charges and turn-on fees.

For full details and eligibility requirements, visit WSSC Water’s Get Current page.

​Energy Support and Affordability

The Maryland General Assembly is prioritizing energy affordability and sustainability during the 2025 session, addressing rising rates caused by infrastructure challenges, out-of-state imports, and severe winter weather.
Recent efforts include:
  • Three major energy bills focused on rate stabilization and renewable energy integration.
  • Oversight of utility rate structures and capital investment recovery timelines.
  • Joint hearings led by House and Senate energy committees.​

​Pepco Bill Support & Assistance Programs

In response to concerns about rising electric bills, Pepco is providing resources to help customers understand their bills, explore payment options, and access assistance programs. Customers can visit pepco.com/BillSupport for tools and information on managing energy costs.

Key Factors Impacting Bills:
  • Colder temperatures and rate adjustments are causing fluctuations in electric bills.
  • Rate changes as of January 2025 include:
    • 1% supply increase (+$1.18 on average per month).
    • 4% surcharge increase (+$6.34 on average per month).
    • Main driver: Changes to the EmPOWER Maryland surcharge, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lowers long-term energy costs.

Steps Pepco is Taking to Assist Customers:
  • No late payment fees for January and February 2025.
  • Suspension of disconnections for nonpayment in February 2025.
  • Waived deposits for customers seeking to restore service.

Available Assistance Programs:
  • Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP): Helps cover a portion of customers’ electric bills.
  • Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA): Provides up to $2,000 in past-due bill forgiveness for eligible customers.
  • Utility Service Protection Program (USPP): Offers heating assistance for limited-income families.

Customers can apply for these programs through the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs (website or call 1-800-332-6347).

Other Support Options:
  • Assistance Finder Tool: Helps customers find financial aid, bill management, and energy efficiency programs.
  • Payment Plans: Includes budget billing, extended due dates, and repayment plans of up to 24 months.
  • Energy-Saving Resources: Tools to monitor usage, project monthly bills, and access energy efficiency programs at pepco.com/saveenergy.

For customers without internet access, Pepco’s Customer Care Team is available at 202-833-7500.

​Mobilize Montgomery

The Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with Mobilize Montgomery, a collaborative initiative supporting businesses and workers affected by federal budget cuts. This resource hub, led by Montgomery County and key economic organizations, provides access to financial assistance, workforce programs, job fairs, and more. Explore their dedicated page for the latest support and opportunities HERE.
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8601 Georgia Avenue, Suite 203  |  Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (301) 565-3777 | [email protected] | www.gsscc.org
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