A homeless survey conducted by the Local Board on Homelessness in September 2007 revealed at least 30 and possibly as many as 50 homeless persons living along the Rt 1 corridor in the Laurel area without shelter. In December, advocates from the Board organized a pilot Homeless Outreach Project to determine the numbers, locations and needs of this population.

As a start, volunteers from two churches delivered food once weekly to homeless individuals and families on the street, in cars, vacant moving vans, and makeshift camps. It soon became apparent that in addition to food, these persons needed shelter from the elements, clothing, medical and mental health treatment, basic hygiene items, and access to social services. Volunteers responded to these needs as they appeared. News of the project quickly spread by word of mouth to both the homeless and other churches. By early February there were 30 churches and businesses involved, providing food three times weekly to as many as 35 persons.

The Route One Center provides a place for our homeless friends to shower, do laundry, eat a hot meal, have access to a food pantry and clean, serviceable clothing, access to computers and an opportunity to develop relationships. Sometimes medical personnel or counselors are available to guide people in terms of minor health problems, job-hunting, resumes, navigating assistance through the various “systems.” The staff and volunteers are on hand to provide support, prayers, encouragement, conversation or a chess partner. This Center is an outgrowth of Grassroots here in Howard County and strives to serve people who might otherwise “miss out.” It is funded by a combination of county money, foundations, church, and individual gifts.

The Center has limited hours three days a week:

On the first Monday of each month, St. Peter’'s has a team to provide a hot meal, drinks, etc. We usually serve breast of turkey, potatoes, broccoli, salad, cheese and crackers, and fruit. The members of our team take turns preparing the different dishes. Some people bring their part of the meal to the church on Sunday where another team member takes it home to reheat if necessary and get it to the Center by 1:30 on Monday. Others bring their offerings directly to the Center. Three to five team members are there at varying times during our 4½ hours to set-up, serve, clean-up and visit with people there. People are always welcome to join the First Monday Meal team to participate in this ministry!

There are also opportunites for individuals to volunteer at different times and in different ways. For more information check out the Center's website:

For FAQ's and additional information, visit the Route 1 Center FAQ's or to offer to help, please contact Suzonne Sage or Phil Shaw.