The Equity Center
The Equity Center is a community recovery and social enterprise endeavor in the heart of Montgomery County serving particularly vulnerable and historically ignored communities in Montgomery County whose challenges have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Our Mission is to advance equity and justice, empower generosity, and improve the quality of life in the GMV (Gaithersburg/Montgomery Village).
The Covid-19 pandemic has disproportionately devastated communities already vulnerable to systemic inequities, social/ethnic marginalization, and immigration insecurity. The Equity Center exists to offer effective solutions to post-pandemic recovery needs through innovative ideas, nimble infrastructures, and collaborative approaches.
We offer the following services:
Providing culturally appropriate fresh produce, staple foods, and resources:
- Large-scale “Grab-and-go” food distributions
- Smaller community partner events
- Vaccine and health clinics in collaboration with partners organizations
- Montgomery County Summer Meals program
Providing holistic care physically, emotionally, and spiritually
- Covid testing and vaccinations
- Free or low-cost eye and dental clinics
- Health screenings
- Nutrition, cooking, exercise, and family health classes
- Mental health assistance, mindfulness, and spiritual care
Economic resources and training
- Workforce Development Services: mentoring, career counseling, job placement, resume assistance
- Equity micro-enterprise incubator: giving the opportunity for qualified entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, and chefs the ability to offer their skills to the community and ultimately to open up their own food business
Connecting constituents with available services
- Referral desk for mental health services, rent and eviction assistance, education help, food assistance (SNAP, WIC, etc); health insurance/Medicare
- Immigration Assistance: pro-bono guidance; case management support
Providing space for community connection
- The Equity Coffee Shop with coffee, tea, and snacks available at an equitable price-point in a welcoming, coffee-house setting
- Public access to computers with enhanced broadband WiFi connectivity
Our Core Values: Dignity, Hospitality, and Community
We live out these values through the Equity Center. The aim is to not only meet the practical needs of constituents but also further the higher needs for individual agency, self-worth, personal connection, and belonging.
Our Team
