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Sayles Sentinel: Cultivating Resilience in the New Year

January 2025

As I begin my third year on the Council, I am increasingly optimistic that our path forward, though challenging, will be shaped by our firm commitment to our values and collective efforts toward progress. We are navigating a federal administration that challenges many of our cherished principles. However, we will focus on fortifying our commitment to our communities, which are fundamental to the strength of Montgomery County.

If you are part of an immigrant community, the LGBTQIA+ community, or identify with any other vulnerable population, I want to reaffirm my commitment to supporting you. You matter, and you belong here. It’s essential to stay informed about your rights and the resources available to you.

This newsletter introduces a variety of supportive programs and initiatives designed to assist you. I welcome your feedback on this and any other concerns. Please feel free to reach out anytime. Together, we can build a more inclusive and empowered community.

Resuming Legislative Sessions and Setting Priorities for 2025

Celebrating the swearing-in of Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, Rep. April McClain Delaney, and Rep. Jamie Raskin, along with Montgomery County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair Pamela Luckett (clockwise from top left).

As the new year begins, legislative sessions have resumed at all levels of government, prompting discussions on priorities for our residents. Earlier this month, I celebrated the swearing-in of our newest federal representatives, Rep. April McClain Delaney and Sen. Angela Alsobrooks.

As a member of the Legislative Committee of the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo), I have reviewed Governor Moore’s FY26 budget proposal and the priorities of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, both of which will influence our local discussions. 

I look forward to working with local government colleagues to promote our shared priorities, which include increasing flexibility in local revenue, restoring equitable transportation funding, aligning the Blueprint with our economic conditions, and advancing clean energy initiatives. In the coming months, we will continue to meet to recommend legislation that will provide the necessary tools and resources to serve the people of Maryland. You can follow the state bills we are tracking here.

Joining legislators from across Maryland at the MACo Legislative Committee meeting and reception with Del. Jheanelle Wilkins, Prince George’s County Councilmember Wanika Fisher, Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller, Montgomery County Planning Board Chair Artie Harris, and Council President Kate Stewart, among others (clockwise from top left).

Commemorating Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Muslim American Heritage Month, Korean American Day, and Lunar New Year

Recognizing Korean American Day with Chief Administrative Law Judge of Maryland, Councilmember Marilyn Balcombe, and others; speaking at the Office of Human Rights celebration for Martin Luther King Jr. Day; and commemorating Muslim American Heritage Month with Council President Kate Stewart, Saba Rashid, and others.

In January, the Council celebrated several important commemorations, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Muslim American Heritage Month, and Korean American Day. These proclamations remind us of our county's values, particularly in the face of divisive rhetoric that contradicts Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of inclusivity, equity, and collective progress. By honoring his legacy, we demonstrate our commitment to inclusion by uplifting communities such as our Muslim-American and Korean American neighbors. Remember that we are stronger and more vibrant when we come together. May we continue on Dr. King’s path toward a more equitable future, where all residents of Montgomery County—regardless of faith or national origin—enjoy the same rights and freedoms.

Welcoming the Lunar New Year with residents of all ages at celebrations across Montgomery County!

45th Annual Commission for Women's Legislative Briefing

Convening at the Commission for Women’s Annual Legislative Briefing with Rep. April McClain Delaney, Del. Lesley Lopez, panel moderator Ansuya Bisbey, and Commissioner Mital Gajjar (L-R).

The Commission for Women’s Annual Legislative Briefing is a key event that advocates for women’s issues. This year’s theme, EMPOW(HER): Breaking Barriers to Success, emphasizes collective efforts to create environments where women and girls can achieve success without facing gender-based limitations. I was honored to serve as a panelist alongside Rep. April McClain-Delaney and Del. Lesley Lopez. We discussed pathways to political leadership and shared our insights on overcoming barriers with high school students who will be our future leaders. I am deeply committed to inspiring young women to consider careers in public service.

I look forward to connecting with impactful women while we honor the trailblazers who paved the way for us throughout March! Our annual Women’s History Month event on March 28 promises to be particularly exciting. Make sure to grab your tickets!

Please RSVP to join me in March to celebrate Women’s History Month. Get your tickets and sign up for our signature event, a mentorship matching program!

Introducing the More Housing N.O.W. Legislative Package

Celebrating the introduction of the More Housing N.O.W. legislative package with fellow Councilmembers, community advocates, and housing experts at a press conference.

I am excited to join Councilmembers Andrew Friedson and Natali Fani-Gonzalez, Council President Kate Stewart, and Councilmembers Dawn Luedtke and Marilyn Balcombe as co-sponsors of the More Housing N.O.W. legislative package. This innovative package addresses the affordable housing crisis by increasing workforce housing, converting vacant buildings into housing, and expanding pathways to homeownership.

Housing affordability is a significant issue across the country. We have developed legislation to increase our housing supply while ensuring it remains accessible to our workforce. The More Housing N.O.W. package has strong support from community advocates and housing experts. I will continue collaborating with my colleagues and stakeholders to advocate for affordable housing options for every resident who wants to call our county home.

Celebrating Montgomery County’s 3rd Annual Delta Day

Joining Sorors from the Montgomery County and Potomac Valley Alumnae Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. to commemorate their 3rd annual Delta Day at the County Council.

The Montgomery County Council recently hosted the 3rd annual Delta Day to honor Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated for decades of advocating for Black women's progress, organizing community outreach programs, and engaging in public service initiatives. We thank President Barbara Boney of the Montgomery County (MD) Alumnae Chapter and President Brooke Holmes of the Potomac Valley Alumnae Chapter for their leadership and dedication.

As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., I am proud to witness our sorors spearheading initiatives to enhance the lives of all Montgomery County residents through the lens of Deltas’ Five Point Programmatic Thrust, which concentrates on Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement.

Youth Advisory Council 5th Cohort Kick-off

Kicking off the fifth cohort of my S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council with an introductory meeting and a tour of the Council Building!

Thank you to all the bright students who applied for the fifth cohort of our S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council. We received over 70 applications and are pleased to announce that we have accepted 20 students! This cohort includes participants from all seven Council districts, ranging from grades 7 to 12. During our first meeting, we introduced the purpose and goals of the Youth Advisory Council. We discussed how the County’s budget priorities align with racial equity and social justice (RESJ) initiatives and my S.M.A.R.T. policy agenda. We also took students and their families on a tour of the County Council building. Most importantly, we heard from each student about the issues they are passionate about in their communities. Throughout the semester, we will maintain close contact with all cohort members and keep them informed about the work of the County Council. 

We look forward to our next meeting on February 10th, where we will begin exploring each aspect of my S.M.A.R.T. policy agenda and its connection to the budget process. The S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council continues to provide students a valuable opportunity to learn about their roles as young leaders in public service and advocacy.

S.M.A.R.T. Updates Around the County

Strengthen 21st Century Learning from Cradle to Career and Beyond

Gala of Unity for Stalking Awareness Month

Raising awareness around the myths and realities of stalking with Just Stalking Maryland Resources and fellow guests.

January is vital for raising awareness about Stalking Awareness Month and Human Trafficking Awareness Month. These often-overlooked forms of gender-based violence affect many individuals, highlighting the need for compassion and support. I was honored to join Just Stalking Maryland Resources to celebrate the diversity among stalking victims and share inspiring stories of resilience from community members. I commend Just Stalking for organizing this important event and their continued support. I also want to emphasize countywide efforts to combat violence during Human Trafficking Awareness Month, recognizing the disproportionate impact on communities of color and young people and acknowledging the ongoing work of law enforcement and advocates in this fight.

Recognizing the realities of how human trafficking impacts residents here in Montgomery County at the annual Human Trafficking Awareness Month Proclamation.

JCA Art Show Reception

Joining the Jewish Council on Aging to celebrate the incredible artwork of our seniors living with dementia.

I attended the Jewish Council on Aging's annual Art Show Reception this month, celebrating the fantastic artwork of our aging neighbors living with dementia. The event featured a mixed-media art display that fostered a sense of community. It is essential to ensure that our older residents feel valued and have access to spaces that promote their independence, dignity, and vitality as they navigate various stages of life. Thank you to the JCA for welcoming me into this supportive community space.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Youth Leadership Institute Meeting

I gathered with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. members and their youth leaders to discuss my political career.

I thank the Ladies of the Xi Sigma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, for inviting me to speak at their Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) meeting. It was a privilege to share an encouraging message to uplift and inspire our youth leaders to pursue careers in legislative leadership. Engaging with the next generation about the issues that impact their lives and our community was truly empowering.

Representation matters, as evidenced by the significant impact of having two Divine Nine members on the County Council: myself and Council Vice President Jawando, along with former County Executive Isiah "Ike" Leggett. I have long supported initiatives that develop our young people into leaders who advocate for progress and create policies that propel us into the future. Fostering youth involvement in our political system is critical to developing a strong pipeline of public servants. I am hopeful and optimistic when I think about the difference these future Youth Leaders will make!

Montgomery County Youth Equity Summit

Participating in a panel discussion with other youth mentors to discuss the importance of equity.

I was honored to attend this year’s Youth Equity Summit at the Universities at Shady Grove, an event focused on fostering dialogue and action around youth equity issues. This summit was a valuable opportunity to understand our youth's challenges and the professional paths they wish to pursue. During the summit, young people shared concerns about mental health, safety, and the pressures of academics without adequate support. These discussions emphasized the need for collaboration in addressing these issues.

On a panel about equity, I highlighted the vital role that young people play in community engagement. Their involvement is crucial for advancing equity and ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all. Together, we can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for our youth and community to thrive.

Capital Youth Outreach Club Awards Ceremony

Congratulations to the Capital Youth Outreach Club on celebrating their 6th anniversary!

The Capital Youth Outreach Club (CYOC) is an outstanding organization founded by Dr. Ping Lu that promotes and supports meaningful and sustained student involvement through outreach initiatives, cultural exchange, and community service. Founded six years ago, the CYOC has over 500 members, including three of my current S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council cohort! I joined the Minister-counselor and Consul General of the Chinese Embassy Zhu Di, Secretary of State Susan Lee, MD Senator Dr. Clarence Lam, Chief Administrative Law Judge Chung Pak, and County Executive Marc Elrich to congratulate the co-presidents, vice presidents, board leaders, student volunteers, and adult advisors for their ongoing dedication to positively connecting students with opportunities to impact their communities.

Make Living in Montgomery County More Affordable

OAS Shelter Tour

My team visited the Office of Animal Services, where we met various animals, learned about resources for pet owners, and received updates on animal welfare investigations.

My team visited the Office of Animal Services (OAS) shelter in Derwood earlier this month. We learned about OAS’s adoption and foster care services, animal caretaking practices, and initiatives to make pet ownership more affordable. We also discovered their efforts in animal welfare investigations to counter and prevent cruelty. It was a valuable opportunity to see firsthand how OAS operates its shelter and provides community services, such as low-cost vaccine clinics for pet owners. OAS leaders, staff, and volunteers' dedication to caring for our non-human residents is commendable. We must continue to support these facilities so that all deserving animals can find quality, loving homes.

Advance Sustainable Local Food Production in the Ag Reserve

Nourishing Bethesda Choice Market Tour

Joining staff and shoppers at Nourishing Bethesda’s Choice Market!

I was excited to join Nourishing Bethesda for their recent Choice Market launch. Although it operates as a food bank, the newly designed miniature grocery store allows clients to select the foods they prefer off the shelves. Their innovative pantry eliminates food waste and enables people to shop with dignity. An invaluable resource, this market is the newest resource at Nourishing Bethesda, which reaches approximately 5,000 people each month. I am proud of our countywide efforts to expand funding for essential programs like Nourishing Bethesda. Just two months ago, Montgomery County’s Office of Food Systems Resilience allocated an additional $3.5 million in grants to our food assistance providers, prioritizing support for “choice models,” including hundreds of thousands of dollars for this market! I look forward to seeing innovative food access programs like this grow and expand and nourish all our residents!

Revitalize the Economy

Bethesda Green Entrepreneurial Showcase

I heard from entrepreneurs of all ages who are experts in sustainability, including Del. Sarah Wolek, Dave Feldman, the Executive Director of Bethesda Green, Cara Lesser, the Founder and Executive Director of the KID Museum, and other business leaders.

A green economy is not only our future. It’s already here, thanks in large part to Bethesda Green! Bethesda Green has played a considerable role in championing a sustainable and green economy by accelerating entrepreneurs dedicated to driving impactful change. I was excited to attend their Entrepreneurial Showcase, an event to spotlight startups creating solutions in key sectors such as food systems, clean energy, climate resilience, green living, and sustainable technology. At the showcase, entrepreneurs pitched their ideas, shared progress, and received feedback from a distinguished panel of industry experts and leaders, embodying the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and sustainability that define our community.

Celebrating Our Local Economy

Joining brand new local businesses, including TaxBiz USA CEO Beth McNeil and the staff at Gold’s Gym, to celebrate their grand openings in our County (L-R)

As we welcome the new year, our county is excited to see new local businesses opening! This month, I enjoyed attending the grand openings of TaxBizUSA and Gold’s Gym, located in Montgomery County. Please visit TaxBizUSA for all your tax preparation and filing needs. They will help ensure your finances are in order as we approach tax season. Additionally, check out Gold’s Gym for a personalized fitness plan from some of the region’s top trainers. Together, these businesses can help you stay on track with your financial and fitness goals.

The Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Recipe for Success Guide

The Department for Permitting Services has developed an invaluable guide for individuals aspiring to open a restaurant in the County. This comprehensive document provides clear steps regarding the necessary research, applications, licenses, and inspections. The guide recognizes that starting a small business can be challenging and time-consuming, so it is a valuable resource to help streamline the journey and make it more manageable.

Tackle Climate Change Through Equitable Transportation Initiatives

Community Resilience During Extreme Winter Weather

This winter has brought some freezing weather, so preparing for rapidly changing temperatures is essential. If we experience more freezing conditions in February, I encourage residents to take advantage of the available winter resources. WSSC provides an informative guide on weatherproofing your home and preparing your water supply for extreme cold. Don’t hesitate to contact the WSSC Emergency Call Center at 301-206-4002 for immediate assistance. Let’s stay proactive and safe this winter!

The County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security maintains a Winter Storm Information Portal, which includes details on snow plowing progress. Residents have raised concerns about who is responsible for snow removal and possible delays. Please check the portal to find out whether your road is maintained by the County Department of Transportation (DOT), the State Highway Administration, or privately, as is often the case for many homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and community associations. Please report uncleared sidewalks through this portal.

Ride On Reimagined

This month, the County's Department of Transportation published its Ride On Reimagined study, detailing a range of planned service enhancements for our county transit network. Some highlights include eight new BRT lines, 19 new Ride On Flex on-demand zones and hybrid fixed/on-demand areas, new cross-county connections between key activity centers, and 68 routes with improved weekend or weekday frequencies. 

Strengthening our bus transit networks is a key part of the “T” in my S.M.A.R.T. policy agenda, underscoring my ongoing commitment to addressing climate change through an equitable lens. Our public transit options are crucial to many of our community members’ lives, helping them get to work, come home in the evening, run errands, and visit our loved ones. Our responsibility is to ensure that the transit network is high quality, efficient, and sustainable. I’m excited to see the study published and will follow its implementation closely.

Constituent Advocacy

February Public Hearing Schedule for the Montgomery County Council

There are many upcoming public hearings for us to hear from you on specific legislation! Share your thoughts by testifying at a public hearing. Sign up to testify or submit your testimony using this link. The deadline to sign up is 2:00 p.m. the day before the hearing.

Capital Improvements Project (CIP) Budget Public Hearings Schedule

The County Council wants to hear from you about prioritizing our capital investments, and there will be four public hearings in February on this matter, on February 5th and 6th at 1:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. I encourage folks to sign up to testify virtually in front of the Council or submit written testimony to make their voices heard. Residents can learn more and sign up to testify here.

Vacancies for Montgomery County Boards, Committees, and Commissions (BCC)

The following County boards, committees, and commissions are seeking applicants:

• Commission on Aging | Deadline: February 14
• Charter Review Commission | Deadline: Open Until Filled
• Animal Services Advisory Committee | Deadline: Open Until Filled
• Montgomery County Trial Board | Deadline: Open Until Filled 
• Sign Review Board | Deadline: Open Until Filled
• Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board | Deadline: Open Until Filled

For information on how to apply or any other questions, please contact Council.Clerk@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Upcoming Events

Legislative Corner

February ECON and HHS Committee Worksessions

Below is the list for February's ECON and HHS Committee Worksessions. To find committee work session agendas and watch live, you can follow along on County Cable 6, the Council website, or the Council’s YouTube or Facebook page.

• February 5th, 1:30 p.m., Joint HHC/EC Committee Meeting 
• February 20th, 9:30 a.m., ECON Committee Meeting 
• February 24th, 9:30 a.m., Joint EC/HHS Committee Meeting
• February 27th, 1:30 p.m., HHS Committee Meeting

Community Events

Throughout February: Black History Month at the Gaithersburg Community Museum

Throughout February, the Gaithersburg Community Museum will honor Black History Month with engaging activities and a special poster exhibit celebrating notable Black heroes from Maryland. Drop in anytime during museum hours to explore the exhibit and participate in hands-on activities that celebrate and recognize the rich contributions of Black individuals to our history and community.

February 1: Celebrate Black History Month with Culture Queen

Celebrate Black History Month at the Wheaton Library! Join us for an exciting music, movement, and storytelling session with Jessica Smith, aka Culture Queen, in the Social Hall on the second floor. No registration or tickets are required—bring your family and friends for a memorable experience!

February 5: National Black HIV and AIDS Awareness Day

The African American Health Program will host Black HIV and AIDS Awareness Day at the Silver Spring Civic Center on February 5, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 P.m. Attendees will learn about the impact of HIV and AIDS on Black communities, connect with fabulous resources from community vendors, and enjoy free music, food, and refreshments.

February 5: Soil: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden

Author Camile Dungy will discuss her memoir about gardening, motherhood, and her seven-year odyssey to diversify her garden. This online presentation, which will take place from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., is free to attend. You can register here.

February 8: Family Day at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park

Families are invited to Woodlawn Manor House from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to enjoy hands-on activities, including making a compass, mapping their family tree, sharing their thoughts on freedom, and more. This event is recommended for children ages 6 to 17. Storytimes will take place at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. This free event does not require advance registration.

February 8: Her Canvas, Her Voice: Celebrating Black Women's Artistic Legacy

Join the sorors of the Montgomery County (MD) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., to honor the power and diversity of Black Women's contributions to the arts through song, visual mediums, and dance. Performances include the artistry of the Limitless Dancing Warriorettes, music vocals by Petra Martin, and spoken word by Janai Marshall. Light refreshments will be served at this free event. Registration is required.

February 8: Friendship Heights Winterfest

Gather at the Village Center with neighbors and friends for a morning of music and comfort food designed to take the chill out of the cold winter months from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. for a breakfast of freshly cooked pancakes and turkey bacon by the Omelette Man. Top it off with hot coffee and hot chocolate, and enjoy performances by the Ballet Theatre of Maryland and harpist Kristin Jepperson.

February 14: MCPS 17th Annual HBCU College Fair

This free in-person event at The Universities at Shady Grove will allow students in grades 8–12 to meet representatives from more than 50 HBCUs. Representatives will share information and answer questions from students and parents about admissions, financial aid, testing, majors, and more. The event will also feature a college preparation workshop for middle school students and parents, a discussion on college life, FAFSA completion assistance, scholarship information, and more.

February 18: Seeing Without Sight Documentary Premiere

SEEING WITHOUT SIGHT is a documentary that follows the inspiring journeys of girls and women with vision loss. It challenges societal norms of beauty and invites viewers to embrace a deeper understanding of what it truly means to see. Women face higher rates of vision loss than men, and 64% of the 39 million blind people worldwide are girls and women. Watch the premiere at the AFI Theatre in Silver Spring, which will accompany a light reception by Crown Bakery.

February 19: African American History in Montgomery County

Learn about African American history in Montgomery County from Sandi L. Williams, who grew up in Sandy Springs and can trace her ancestry back eight generations. As a co-director at the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery and a historian at heart, Sandi will share the history of Sandy Spring and what life was like from 1728, when the Quakers settled the land, to today, where many descendants of those formerly enslaved by the Quakers still call Sandy Spring home. The Rockville Senior Center will host this event from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.; tickets are $10.

February 19: Montgomery County Green Business Certification Program

Learn how to thrive in the new green economy! Join OMG and Bethesda Green at the Wheaton Library from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a networking and information session on Green Business Certification. At the event, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to save money, reduce your footprint, and promote your business. Refreshments and door prizes will be available, and the grand door prize is a certification scholarship! This event is free and open to the public.

February 20: History Hour at Josiah Henson Museum and Park

Historian Ralph Buglass will present an illustrated talk on how civil rights attorney Thurgood Marshall delivered an early blow to segregation in Montgomery County. The little-known case is often seen as the first step in Marshall’s drive to outlaw segregated schools. We recommend this event for ages 12+, and tickets are $5. Guests are welcome to arrive early and tour the Josiah Henson Museum. Doors will open at 5:00 p.m., and the event will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Get your tickets here or onsite.

February 22: Black History Month Family Day at Josiah Henson Museum and Park

Visit the Josiah Henson Museum and Park from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for educational, hands-on activities that demonstrate what a child’s life was like in Dawn, the settlement Rev. Josiah Henson created after self-emancipating to Canada via the Underground Railroad. Henson was a lifelong fighter for freedom and education. This event is for all ages and free with paid admission to the museum. Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for children and seniors. Tickets are available for purchase onsite.

February 25: Healing Multigenerational Trauma: Community Conversations with Dr. Joy DeGruy

The Institute for Mastery and Integration (IMI) invites you to join this exciting and free conversation to explore the intersection of racial discrimination, trauma, violence, and slavery on African Americans and understand how the past has influenced our present. Dr. DeGruy will provide practical tools to eliminate nonproductive attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. Following the morning session, Dr. DeGruy will hold a more in-depth dialogue, for church leaders only, on how the Black church can step forward to facilitate healing in today’s Black communities. Registration is required.

February 28: Minds in Motion Child Care Black History Month Celebration

Join the students of Minds in Motion Child Care, Scotland Community, Judith Resnik Elementary School, Bells Mill elementary School, Goshen Elementary School, Watkins Mill Elementary School, Damascus Elementary School, and Winston Churchill High School for the organization’s 18th annual celebration of diversity during Black History Month. This event will take place at Watkins Mill High School from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and will feature special guests, including singer Ayla Dennis, Elite AfroDance Team, Diaspora Danzo from Gaithersburg High School, and a poet from WPGC 95.5. Admission is free and dinner will be provided!

March 28: Women's History Month Breakfast and Mentorship Event

Join me at the Silver Spring Civic Building from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for an event celebrating Women's History Month. The event will focus on the theme of “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” Attendees will enjoy breakfast, inspiring discussions, and a unique mentorship matching program featuring county leaders and changemakers passionate about women's advocacy and empowerment. This event is free, but registration is required.

Community Resource Hub

• The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) accepts applications for various 2025 Scholarships on its website. The deadline to apply for most scholarships is mid-March.
• The Black Business Expo is a collaboration between the Montgomery County Black Collective and the Universities at Shady Grove. It will showcase Black-owned businesses in Montgomery County on June 10. The deadline to apply is February 10.
• Primary Care Coalition will offer a 100% tuition and fees scholarship to Montgomery County residents interested in becoming a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) or a GNA (Geriatric Nursing Assistant) – apply today!
• WSSC Water offers annual scholarships through the Commissioners’ Engineering Scholarship Program to college students majoring in engineering fields. It is vital to its mission to provide financial assistance to students from WSSC Water’s service district to further their engineering studies.
• Visit Montgomery is surveying residents as part of their efforts to develop a compelling rural branding and tourism strategy for Montgomery County’s rural communities, including the 93,000-acre Agricultural Reserve. Learn more and take the survey!
• The Montgomery County Food Council’s Online Food Assistance Resource Directory lists over 100 food assistance sites. The directory is searchable by location, languages spoken, food assistance type, accessibility, and other features to serve residents’ needs best.
• DACA recipients can get a private health plan and financial help through Maryland Health Connection. Click here to find out if you qualify!
• If you are living with HIV in Montgomery County, you are not alone. Join our County’s monthly virtual support group meeting on Zoom every 4th Tuesday at 5:30 PM.
• Montgomery County Children’s Opportunity Alliance offers Pre-K Capacity Building Grant Funding for local child care centers – apply now!

If you have questions or want to discuss this newsletter, please email me at Councilmember.Sayles@montgomerycountymd.gov or call my office at 240-777-7964.

Please click the button below to subscribe to our monthly newsletter. Thank you for reading; I look forward to continuing to serve our community in the new year and beyond!

Sincerely,

Laurie-Anne Sayles

Councilmember At-Large