Nonprofit Spotlight

Nonprofit Spotlight

Three Oaks Center is a nonprofit that helps homeless individuals in Southern Maryland by providing housing, stabilization, training, and referrals to partnered agencies for services. The organization focuses on assisting disabled people with chronic disabilities, individuals dealing with mental health issues, and young people. Its primary goal is to address homelessness-related issues such as affordable housing, neglect, addiction, and food insecurity while helping individuals return to productive and self-sufficient lives.

“I will always be so grateful for Three Oaks. [The nonprofit’s staff] really, truly saved my life. They opened my eyes and gave me advice. I really appreciate everything they’ve done. Overall, I was very satisfied with my experience with Three Oaks.” - Ms. D, Nonprofit Client

The organization’s history began over 30 years ago. In 1991, community leaders noticed that increasing homelessness among men was a significant concern in St. Mary’s County. The group was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1992 to address the problem. In January of 1996, Three Oaks Center’s facility opened and served the first individuals. After receiving grant funds from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, the nonprofit started providing permanent housing to people with mental disabilities in October of 2000. It also expanded its services to help women and families. In 2003, Three Oaks Center purchased and rehabilitated 10 townhouses in Lexington Park, which offer 10 units of supportive transitional housing for families. Today, the nonprofit participates in community and agency meetings to explore new ways to assist homeless people in St. Mary’s County.

“Three Oaks really helped me a lot. First, [the nonprofit’s staff] got me situated. Then, [they] made a real effort to get me back with my kids. Aisha and Chavonte really helped me out a lot and they weren’t just case workers, but [they] really gave me advice. They woke up and gave me advice. They really did help me when I had nowhere else to go. I will always be so grateful for Three Oaks. They really, truly saved my life. They opened my eyes and gave me advice. I really appreciate everything they’ve done. Overall, I was very satisfied with my experience with Three Oaks.” - Ms. C, Nonprofit Client

Three Oaks Center provides a wide range of programs to assist individuals experiencing homelessness. These programs include rapid rehousing, support for veterans, permanent supportive housing, shelters for families with children, emergency housing for men, and assistance for single women. The nonprofit’s street outreach efforts are aimed at helping individuals living in unsheltered locations become aware of and access the support they need. The emergency shelters provide short-term stabilization for both individuals and families while they seek long-term housing solutions. The rapid rehousing program follows the housing first model, focusing on quickly moving homeless individuals or families into permanent housing. The permanent supportive housing program also offers long-term, flexible, and supportive services to chronically homeless individuals and families.

“I’ve had a great experience with the [veteran] program. Everyone I’ve worked with has been super helpful, and I recommend the program to any veteran who’s asking!” - Ms. J-B, Nonprofit Client

The nonprofit serves discharged veterans through its Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program, which aims to raise awareness of and address the challenges faced by veterans and their families. The initiative offers a structured approach for participants to navigate change and work towards becoming self-sufficient with proper care. Three Oaks Center’s veteran programs include services such as case management, temporary financial assistance, and legal assistance to help veterans and their families overcome or avoid homelessness.

“Working with Three Oaks has transformed my perspective on Southern Maryland and the challenges faced by this county. It’s eye-opening to witness the hardships that affect our neighbors. While the work can often be emotional, the outcomes are incredibly rewarding when lives are changed, and individuals take steps to stabilize their lives.” - Nora Galvan, Communication and Outreach Intern

Three Oaks Center is currently working on The Shower Project in Lexington Park, Maryland. The two-year initiative aims to renovate the bathrooms at the Church of Ascension to make them easily accessible for the homeless. The renovated bathrooms will also include showers and laundry facilities. The nonprofit has secured project funding from the Lowes Hometown Improvement Grant and Delegate Brian Crosby’s office. Additionally, the nonprofit is planning to host its 2nd Annual Fall Ball fundraising event at Breton Bay from 6 - 10 p.m. This casual and fun event supports a cause that makes a significant difference in the lives of community members who need a helping hand. All proceeds will go towards essential renovations in the nonprofit’s emergency shelters.

The public can assist Three Oaks Center by donating, volunteering, or becoming a board member. The nonprofit accepts online monetary donations, essential items such as food and hygiene products, and annual sponsorships. Available volunteer opportunities include supporting the food pantry, completing administrative tasks, and monitoring at the shelter. Anyone who is interested in volunteering or becoming a board member can fill out an online form on the organization’s website.

For more information, visit the nonprofit’s website or social media pages. The organization can be found on Facebook and Instagram.

The information used in this article was collected from Nora Galvan, the nonprofit’s first summer communication and outreach intern; Sasha Seenath, the nonprofit’s executive director; and the nonprofit’s website.

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