 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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