Signature Projects

Heartly House is Frederick County’s sole provider of comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. Over 30 years ago, club members banded together with others in the community to establish the county’s first domestic violence shelter, leading to the establishment of Heartly House. 

Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Steiner House becomes a hub of activity as individuals, churches, organizations and businesses drop off food, clothing, and household goods for the families served by Heartly House. Because of confidentiality and safety issues, donors cannot take them directly to Heartly House. There was no place to accept the donations from a giving community.  When FWCC, Inc. heard about the need, we stepped up  and formed a wonderful partnership  in 2013.

Heartly House periodically updates a list of what they need most, depending on who they are currently serving. If there are moms with infants, diapers will be on the list. At the beginning of the school year, clothes are really needed. And some things are always in demand like hygiene products, canned foods, and gift cards. Click here to see a list.

Heartly House also asks our members for help with special needs and projects year-round. We make comfort blankets  for rape victims seen by Heartly House in the emergency room.  We  staff tables at outreach events on prevention., help with mailings, sponsor an annual Heartly House staff and volunteer appreciation lunch, and help with fundraisers. 

Our members have a special place in their hearts for Heartly House and the work they do for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Our members have worked to support the Child Advocacy Center of Frederick County for many years. Recognizing the ever-growing needs of the CAC, in 2006 several club members helped to establish the Friends of the CAC. This non-profit organization provides support for CAC programs and helps to raise awareness about the problem of childhood abuse in our community. 

Since 2006, many of our club members have actively supported the programs that benefit children who have experienced abuse and their non-offending family members 

This includes assisting in National Child Abuse Prevention Month activities including "planting" blue pinwheels  throughout downtown Frederick to raise awareness. Members also have helped with  makeovers of playrooms and counseling offices at the CAC to make them more child friendly. 

We have advocated at government meetings for CAC programs. Some members serve as trained mentors to family members. We also provide direct financial support.