Advocates for Homeless Families (AFHF) is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering motivated families to overcome homelessness. They provide the necessary services to end the cycle of homelessness, including transitional housing, case management, and financial literacy education, enabling families to achieve lasting self-sufficiency.
A conversation with Alexandra Salas
Tell us your origin story!
Advocates for Homeless Families was established in April 1988 through the efforts of All Saints’ Episcopal Church and concerned citizens.
At that time there was an emergency shelter for homeless men, but there were no facilities or programs for homeless families with children. We started with one apartment for one family. Today, we manage 12 apartments and townhouses in Frederick and house up to 20 homeless families per year.
What do you like most about being an organization located in Frederick County?
Frederick County is a strong, generous, and community-driven place where organizations, businesses, and individuals come together to support one another. The collaborative spirit of this community allows us to serve families more effectively, creating real, lasting change for those who need it most.
What makes your organization unique?
Unlike traditional shelters, AFHF provides more than just housing—we require and support families in achieving financial independence through education and career development. Our structured program ensures families don’t just get temporary relief but are equipped with the tools to build a stable, self-sufficient future.
What do you wish people knew about your organization?
We want people to know that we are not a shelter—we are a stepping stone to long-term success. Our program empowers parents through structured support, financial education, and access to career opportunities, ensuring they can provide a stable home for their children for years to come.
How can the community support you?
Donations!
The best way to support AFHF is through monetary donations that directly fund housing, financial education, and employment support for families in need. Every dollar helps families in Frederick County work toward permanent stability. We also have a pantry that we use to help provide families in need with the essentials. From diapers to laundry detergent, hygiene essentials, and so on!
Another way to help is by spreading awareness—sharing our mission on social media, to family, and friends!
What do you do best?
We provide families with the tools to succeed. Our unique approach helps reduce the risk of returning to homelessness after graduation from our program. By combining housing with education, career support, and financial planning, we empower families to work toward lasting independence
Is there anything else exciting about your organization that you’d like the Chamber membership to know about?
Yes! Right now, we are participating in the Unity Week campaign, where every donation made is MATCHED, doubling the impact for families in need, this means DOUBLE THE IMPACT. The last day to donate is tomorrow 3/19/2025. https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/UnityFC25/team/AdvocatesforHomelessFam
We are also partnering with local nonprofits that support families in critical need of housing AND the frederick keys for a fun family night at the keys on June 27th, follow our instagram or facebook for updates on that game! YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS IT!
Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs and initiatives, please visit our website.