Welcoming two new Executive Team members, a National Poverty in America Awareness Month spotlight on Kent County DSS, and legislative advocacy resources.
Greetings, everyone! As we enter a new year, I want to welcome each of you with a renewed focus on service, advocacy, and our shared commitment to strengthening families, supporting vulnerable populations, and enhancing quality of life across our communities. As January marks National Poverty in America Awareness Month, we are reminded that our collective impact is measured not only by intention, but by action, leadership, and sustained commitment.
I am pleased to introduce two new members to the MASSB Executive Team — Dr. Andree Mountain and Tony Lawrence — both of whom bring deep professional experience and a strong personal commitment to advancing our shared goals, while also extending our sincere gratitude to Ed Hinde for his exemplary service and leadership as Trustee and Treasurer. We are already preparing for key MASSB-sponsored events, including the Legislative Conference on March 7 and our Annual Conference this October, graciously hosted by Washington County.
Best,
Tony
Board Chairs: please complete the short questionnaire by January 5th.
In recognition of National Poverty in America Awareness Month, we are shining a light on a meaningful initiative ongoing in Kent County. Kent County DSS supports screening of referrals for unhoused persons to available housing resources, including the Samaritan Cold Weather Shelter (a seasonal shelter rotating among churches).
Understanding that customers being referred may lack basic necessities, DSS prepares drawstring "wellness bags" filled with non-perishable food, body wipes and hygiene products, and cold-weather supplies such as waterproof gloves, socks, hats, neck gaiters, mini flashlights, high-visibility vests, and rain gear. The initiative is supported by the Kent County Cares Foundation (local name of MASSB Foundation).
Many counties have cold weather shelters which rotate among churches during the winter months. If your board is looking for a short-term, high-impact project, please consider contacting your DSS or local shelter to ask how you can help.
The MASSB Fall Conference focused on advocacy, and we were fortunate to have Melissa Bender, DHS Office of Government Affairs, join us to discuss how our boards can advocate for social services programs within the context of the legislative process. The 449th session of the General Assembly of Maryland convenes on January 14th, with January and February being the best months to visit your representatives.
2026 Legislative Session Calendar • Maryland State Representatives • DHS OGA Advocacy Presentation
Still honing your advocacy skills? Consider attending Advocacy Training offered by the League of Women Voters of Maryland.
Register for Advocacy TrainingWe are excited to announce the addition of two new Trustees to our Executive Team! We welcome Dr. Andree Mountain, former Chair of Harford County's Board, and St. Mary's County Board Chair, Tony Lawrence. Andree will also finish out the Treasurer's term of Ed Hinde, who recently moved on from his position as Trustee and Treasurer. We wish Ed all the best and will miss the experience he brought to our team.
