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Thursday, December 4, 2025

Happy Holidays!

As we look ahead to the holiday season, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to every resident of District 7 and Montgomery County. This is a time of year when our community’s kindness shines brightest — in the ways we check on our neighbors, support local nonprofits, and show up for one another. Serving you is the greatest privilege of my life, and I'm profoundly thankful for the trust you place in me and my team.

This year has brought significant challenges for many families. The federal government’s damaging actions — from job reductions to budget uncertainty to policy changes that impact immigrants, our ability to house homeless individuals, and food assistance — have had a tremendous impact. I hear from residents who are feeling the strain, and I want you to know that you're not facing these difficulties alone. My office has worked to help neighbors navigate services, advocate for fair funding, and make sure District 7’s voice is heard when and where it matters. We'll continue fighting to ensure our County receives the support it needs and deserves.

As we move into the holiday season and prepare for a new year, I'm filled with hope because of you — your resilience, generosity, and unwavering commitment to this community. Thank you for everything you do to make District 7 such a special place. My team and I are here for you, during the holidays and always.

Damascus: Join Us Tonight!

Damascus Public Safety Town Hall Flyer

I hope you’ll join me today at 7:00 PM in the Damascus High School cafeteria for an important conversation about public safety in our community. These town halls are one of my favorite ways to connect directly with you — to hear your questions, listen to your experiences, and talk in detail about what’s working and where we need to do better.

Representatives from Police's 5th District and Health and Human Services' Behavioral Health Services will be with us to share updates and help answer your questions.

I’m grateful for their partnership and for the chance to bring everyone together in one room. I hope you’ll stop by, whether you have a specific concern or just want to stay informed. All are welcome, and your voice matters.

Public Service Support Package

Councilmember Luedtke speaking at the Press Conference announcing the Council approval of a $7.75 million Public Service Support Package.

Earlier this fall, I joined my colleagues to announce a $7.75 million Public Service Support Package to help residents, nonprofits, and frontline service providers weather the very real impacts of the federal shutdown. The Council approved this funding at a recent meeting and we'll continue to act when uncertainty at the federal level threatens people’s paychecks, housing stability, food access, or essential services.

This package supports local nonprofits who feed families, keep shelters running, deliver mental health care, and will help ensure our neighbors in need don't slip through the cracks. It also provides resources for residents who suddenly find themselves without a paycheck or facing unexpected hardship through no fault of their own. I’ve said many times that Montgomery County’s strength comes from our people — and in times like these, our commitment to each other becomes even clearer.

In The Community...

Councilmember Luedtke, staff, and her dog Scout at this years Montgomery County Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Volunteer with Olney Help! 

Olney HELP is a quiet powerhouse in our community–supporting thousands of District 7 residents with emergency food deliveries, rental and utility assistance, and compassionate casework when families need it most. Their volunteer network works tirelessly to respond quickly and with dignity. They are always seeking volunteers and welcoming donations to support their emergency food deliveries and financial assistance for families in need. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know needs help. 

Bring Your Own Bag

Montgomery County’s new Bring Your Own Bag Law takes effect January 1, 2026, eliminating plastic carryout bags at most businesses and adding a 10-cent fee for paper bags to support litter reduction and Clean Water Montgomery initiatives. While some exemptions apply, the easiest way to save money and help the environment is to bring reusable bags—and you can pick up a complimentary one at the Rockville Tree Lighting, Gaithersburg Jingle Jubilee, Silver Spring Christmas Market, Westfield Wheaton Festival, many county libraries, or weekdays at 2425 Reedie Drive. Together, we’re proving that Change is In the Bag as we reduce waste, protect our waterways, and build a more sustainable Montgomery County.

Vision Zero Youth Ambassadors Program

Applications are now open for high school students interested in joining MCDOT’s 2026 Vision Zero Youth Ambassador Program. Up to 35 students will be selected for this project-based initiative, which teaches leadership, outreach, and community engagement skills while empowering teens to address local traffic safety needs. Montgomery County high schoolers can apply through Friday, Dec. 5.

The Upcounty Hub – Weekly Food Distributions

The Upcounty Hub holds three public food-distribution events each week at one of six area locations. This is a great resource for families seeking fresh groceries or supplemental food support in our region! 

Montgomery County Holiday Giving Project 

The Holiday Giving Project remains open for referrals for low-income households seeking a helping hand this season (food baskets, gifts, etc.). Residents in need can apply via social-service professionals — a key resource for many in District 7.

Online Food Assistance Resource Directory

Check out the Montgomery County Food Council’s Food Assistance Resource Directory! For folks looking for food pantries, meal delivery, SNAP/WIC support, or emergency meal programs, the Food Council’s directory lists 100+ assistance sites across the County, searchable by zip code and need type. 

If you would like to get in touch with me, please email me at Councilmember.Luedtke@montgomerycountymd.gov or call my office at 240-777-7860.

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