April 21, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Today, Howard County launched an online tool for residents to find locations and organizations to drop-off product donations including groceries, toiletries, and cleaning products. There are 12 locations currently listed, and each listing includes a contact, hours for drop-off, and a list of needs. To access “HoCo Donation Collection” click here.
“Howard County residents have an extraordinary ability to pull together for those in need,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “We saw an increased interest in donations and created this tool to streamline the process and spread the word more effectively about how to support your neighbors. COVID-19 is testing our resiliency, but as we have proven before, we are stronger together. I encourage residents who have the ability to access this tool and see how they can provide support.”
The listings represent the most current information provided to us and are subject to change without notice. The best way to know a donation center’s status is to know-before-you go by calling ahead. The listings are managed by Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD). Organizations wishing to be listed and/or join as COAD members can email Katie Canady at kcanady@howardcountymd.gov.
If individuals or groups have homemade masks to donate, please email Masks.HoCOAD@gmail.com and include quantity, date of availability, location for pick-up, contact information, and any other relevant details.
Howard County Police Department providing guidance around reporting suspected child mistreatment or abuse, after family crimes detectives became concerned about a significant drop in reports of child mistreatment and abuse. With schools closed, children may be home all day with an abuser without a "safe space" to tell someone. Teachers and counselors are often the primary reporters of child abuse, so police are concerned that many cases are now going unreported.
Please help us protect children who might be at risk. The Howard County Child Advocacy Center is open and ready to help kids in need. If you suspect possible child mistreatment or abuse, we're urging you to call the Department of Social Services at 410-872-4203 during business hours. After hours, call 410-313-2200 or email HCPDcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov. Callers CAN remain anonymous. If you have urgent information, please call 911.
HoCo Food Go, the restaurant and bar map launched earlier this month, now has 165 listings for delivery and carry out in the county. HoCo Food Go is available online and via mobile device and allows customers to see an overview of restaurants, including their website, phone, hours and location. If you would like your restaurant listed, please be sure to complete this online form.