Wrapped in Comfort: Women's Giving Circle Of Harford County Grant Helps Local Families Feel At Home

Aberdeen, MD — The Women’s Giving Circle of Harford County (WGC) has awarded a $5,000 grant to Fresh Start Furnishings for its “Wrapped in Comfort Project,” which will provide new mattress covers, pillows, and bath towels to women and children transitioning into stable housing. The funding will directly support 3 to 6 months of supply for families receiving assistance through Fresh Start's Furniture Program.

The “Wrapped in Comfort Project” fills a critical gap by providing basic yet essential comforts that are often overlooked or unavailable through donations. According to Fresh Start Executive Director Alicia Hamilton, “Many of our families are starting over with nothing. These simple items can make a world of difference in helping them feel safe, settled, and dignified. This grant ensures women and children don't have to choose between a warm, clean bed and groceries for their family.”

The Women's Giving Circle of Harford County, established in 2009, is a collective philanthropic organization that awards grants to nonprofits improving the lives of women and families. Since its inception, WGC has granted over $500,000 to local causes, with a focus on addressing critical needs and supporting underserved populations. The 2025 grant to Fresh Start exemplifies WGC’s mission to empower women through collective giving and community impact.

Fresh Start’s clients, many of whom are single mothers, survivors of trauma, or in recovery are referred by agencies such as LASOS, SARC, and Harford County Public School. Of those served, 60–70% are female heads of household. The nonprofit’s donation-based showroom in Aberdeen allows clients to choose their furnishings in a dignified retail-like experience, while costs remain entirely subsidized by grants and donations from the community.

Thanks to this WGC grant, Fresh Start will be able to distribute approximately 90 mattress covers, 120 pillows, and 450 towels, giving comfort, security, and a fresh start to Harford County families who need it most.

For more information about Fresh Start Furnishings, visit www.freshstartmd.org. To learn more about the Women’s Giving Circle of Harford County, visit www.harfordwomengiving.org.