As temperatures rise and routines shift, summer brings unique challenges for many Harford County residents and local nonprofits are often the first to respond.
While winter tends to spark waves of giving, summer quietly intensifies needs in ways that are easy to overlook. Families with children out of school may suddenly lose access to free or reduced-price meals. Utility bills go up as air conditioners run more frequently. And for individuals without stable housing, the heat can pose serious health risks.
Harford Family House, a local nonprofit on the front lines, brings attention to how summer often brings added challenges for families experiencing homelessness, from childcare gaps and rising health risks due to extreme heat, to the increased invisibility of those living in unstable, temporary situations.
Food banks, in particular, often experience a dip in donations during the summer months, just as demand increases. That’s why programs like summer meal distributions, pop-up pantries, and school supply drives start earlier than many people expect. Meanwhile, shelters and transitional housing programs work hard to ensure people have access to cool water, sunscreen, and clean clothing.
Fresh Start Furnishings, for example, sees increased demand from families moving into housing before the new school year starts. “We always need more twin sized beds and bedding, desks, and towels in the summer months,” Executive Director Alicia Hamilton reports. “Families are eager to settle before school starts, and we want to help them prepare so that kids can perform their best in school."
The need for volunteers also spikes in summer, especially for childcare, summer camps, and outdoor service projects. But with many regular volunteers away on vacation, nonprofits often scramble to fill the gap.
So, what can community members do? The answer is simple: check in, show up, and stay consistent. Whether it's donating shelf-stable food, giving a few hours of your time, or hosting a drive for fans or school supplies, your support makes a tangible difference.
To find out what local nonprofits need most right now, visit the Harford Helps Directory and search by cause, organization, or donation type. Together, we can ensure that no one is left to face the summer heat alone.
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