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.

ICE Resources

Council Unanimously Passes Trust Act to Protect Immigrant Communities
On Tuesday, February 10, the Montgomery County Council voted unanimously to approve the Trust Act, legislation that ensures residents, regardless of immigration status, can safely access County services without fear or discrimination.

Spearheaded by Montgomery County Council President Natali Fani-González and building on existing County policies, the Trust Act establishes strong civil rights protections by prohibiting County employees from requesting or investigating a person’s immigration status unless required by law, barring intimidation and discrimination based on perceived status, and guaranteeing that County services and opportunities are not denied because of immigration status except as required by law. It also limits the use of County resources in federal civil immigration enforcement, ensuring that staff, equipment  and County facilities are not used for civil immigration actions without a valid judicial warrant or bona fide criminal law enforcement purpose.  
The legislation does not change the County’s approach to criminal law enforcement. Montgomery County Police will continue to enforce all criminal laws and the State’s Attorney will retain full authority to prosecute those cases. Those who commit crimes in Montgomery County will continue to be held accountable through the justice system. Consistent with current policy, the County will continue narrowly circumscribed cooperation with federal immigration officials on cases involving serious, violent crime.

The legislation is supported by the County Executive, the Montgomery County Police Department, and a multitude of organizations that serve the community, including CASA, ACLU, 32BJ SEIU, JUFJ, and many more.

A bill signing ceremony with County Executive Marc Elrich, Council President Natali Fani-González and stakeholders will be scheduled for Friday, Feb. 20. 
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Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center - Know Your Rights

The Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center is Montgomery County’s resource center for immigrants, providing information and referrals to programs and services offered by government agencies and community organizations.

​The center’s Know Your Rights page provides guidance, information, and resources to learn how to protect your rights if you encounter ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) or law enforcement (police). Resources include guides, cards, flyers, tools, apps, and more.

National Immigration Law Center

The National Immigration Law Center is dedicated to advancing and defending the rights and opportunities of low-income immigrants and their loved ones. They have an extensive catalogue of resources, including "What To do If Immigration Comes To Your Workplace", which is a guide for employers that provides practical advice for addressing immigration-related actions in the workplace.

View and download the guide here: ​A Guide for Employers: What to Do if Immigration Comes to Your Workplace

MoCo Immigrant Rights Collective

The MoCo Immigrant Rights Collective provides support to educate and protect immigrants in Maryland, building a network of mutual aid in Montgomery County. Resources include family preparedness plans and educator resources, MCPS community resource guide, etc.

Tax Resources

2025 Tax Guide: Employer Incentives for Workforce Support and Benefits​
The U.S. Chamber’s tax guide provides educational information on federal tax credits and deductions available to employers that provide childcare to employees, hire individuals encountering specific barriers to employment, establish accessible workplaces, and offer various benefits such as deferred compensation and other welfare benefit plans to employees for the 2025 tax year. Access the guide here.

Employment Assistance

Montgomery County Government Careers
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 College - Resources for the Federal Workforce
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
​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.​
​ Montgomery County Public School Careers
Montgomery County Public Schools Careers:
MCPS is hiring educators, support staff, and substitute teachers. Federal employees with transferable skills are encouraged to apply.
 Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Federal Workforce Resource Webpage
​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
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
​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.​

Housing Assistance

Pathways to Housing DC
Pathways to Housing DC aims to end homelessness and support recovery for people with complex health challenges. They serve over 3500 people each year through programs such as Supported Employment, Housing First Teams, Homeless Street Outreach, and Behavioral Healthcare. 

Homeless Outreach Montgomery County:
  • Responds to concerns about people experiencing homelessness in the area from police, other social service providers, business owners, residents, and downtown visitors.
  • Engages unhoused individuals using best practices to build rapport and connect to needed resources.
  • Assist clients in replacing lost/stolen documents.
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Where you can find the team:
Canvasses the urban districts of Silver Spring & Wheaton, daily, Mon-Fri, to engage and build rapport with unhoused individuals in our community.
Wheaton Library.
11701 Georgia Avenue,
Silver Spring
Space #3
Every Tuesday 11am- 1pm
Charles E. McGee Library.
900 Wayne Ave
Silver Spring, MD
Room #406
Every Thursday 11am - 1pm
During business hours, Mon-Fri, the Outreach Team can be contacted directly at 301-337-7244
Youth Outreach Services:
  • Helps 18-24-year-old individuals who do not have a stable place to sleep or who are experiencing street homelessness, connect to available services.
  • Provides Case Management to assess needs and connect to available resources.
  • Outreach workers will meet youth in public places, such as libraries, recreation centers or similar locations.
  • Reach out anytime and leave a message. Calls are returned within 1 business day.
For more information, contact 240-833-8396

You can also call the Homeless Information Line at 240-907-2688

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.
Montgomery County stands united in fostering an inclusive, safe, and supportive community for all.
Available Resources:
Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center
Montgomery County Pride
County Crisis Center
  • County Crisis Center – Free, 24/7 crisis services at 240-777-4000 or in person at 1301 Piccard Drive, Rockville (no appointment needed).
Mental Health Support
Employment Assistance
Know Your Rights
Report Hate/Bias Incidents
Additional County Services

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.
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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
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.
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​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 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.​
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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:

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 has launched the Extended and Enhanced Get Current 2.0 Program, a temporary bill amnesty program running from July 1, 2025, through November 30, 2025. This initiative offers financial relief to eligible customers with delinquent water and sewer bills as of June 1, 2025.
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Key Benefits:
  • For Residential Customers Below 150% Area Median Income (AMI):
    • Pay half, half forgiven: Customers who pay half of their full account balance will see the remainder of their balance forgiven, plus 100% waiver of late payment charges and turn-on fees.
    • Pay 25 percent, 25 percent forgiven: Customers who pay 25 percent of their full account balance will see 25 percent of their balance forgiven.
 
  • 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

Government Shutdown Support
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  • Flexible Payment Options: Impacted customers can access payment arrangements up to 12 months and budget billing plans to help manage monthly expenses and avoid service disconnection. 
  • Late Payment Charge Waivers: A 30-day waiver on late payment charges will be granted in increments for affected customers. 
  • Proactive Assistance Resources: Customers will be connected to agency assistance programs and tools like:  
  1. Assistance Finder Tool: Helps identify bill assistance and energy efficiency programs that customers may qualify for: https://secure.pepco.com/assistance/landing
  2. Single Stop (PHI only): Helps customers quickly and privately check if they qualify for other benefits, including help with housing, money, food, school, healthcare, childcare, taxes, utility bills, and more. Customer can access the tool anytime on their phone, tablet, or computer. 
  • Impacted federal workers should contact our customer care team for more information about these added support measures and how to access. 
  • Pepco: pepco.com/BillSupport or call 202-833-7500 
  • BGE: bge.com/heretohelp or call 1-800-685-0123 
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.


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.
Copyright Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce.  All Rights Reserved. © 2023 
8601 Georgia Avenue, Suite 203  |  Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: (301) 565-3777 | [email protected] | www.gsscc.org
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