By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervemejicanos@afro.com After announcing more than $4.6 million in emergency aid for food, rent and child care during the government shutdown on Oct. 28, 2025 Baltimore officials are still working to distribute the funds to the individuals and organizations selected to receive them. Michelle Suazo, director of The Food Project in Southwest […]
Category: COMMUNITY
Judge responds to lawsuit against HUD filed by leaders in D.C., Maryland and 20 other states
By Dr. Deborah BaileyAFRO Contributing Editor A U.S. District Court Federal Judge issued a temporary halt to changes in a U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program that would have left thousands of Marylanders homeless. On Dec. 22, U.S. District Court Judge Mary McElroy barred HUD from implementing changes to the federal government’s Continuum of […]
Ways to celebrate Kwanzaa
As Kwanzaa begins on Dec. 26, longtime observers are helping guide people interested in celebrating the holiday but unsure how to begin. Rooted in seven principles known as the Nguzo Saba, Kwanzaa offers families a time to reflect, reconnect and honor Black culture.
Resilient Neighborhoods: Senegalese immigrants find community of support in West Detroit
For immigrants from Senegal, Detroit’s religious communities are a source of spiritual grounding and practical support. The westside of Detroit has become a destination that many Senegalese now call home.
Culture and community: Marking Kwanzaa one day at a time
By AFRO Staff The National Museum of African American History and Culture’s Kwanzaa website offers family-friendly activities and recipes designed to help readers engage with the purpose and meaning of each day. The guide blends cultural tradition with hands-on celebration and features dishes from “A Kwanzaa Keepsake: Celebrating the Holiday with New Traditions and Feasts,” […]
Allendale rec center reopens after nearly three years of closure
Baltimore’s Allendale community celebrated the reopening of the Mary E. Rodman Rec Center after nearly three years of closure. The $1.8 million renovation brings new fitness, a playground and community spaces for local youth and families.
A pastor wants Black men praying together at sunrise
Amid widespread calls for spiritual renewal, Bishop Kenneth O. Robinson Jr. is urging Black men worldwide to unite in prayer at sunrise on Dec. 1. The 6 a.m. call-in gathering aims to spark revival, foster accountability, and strengthen men’s leadership in families, churches, and communities through DreamLife Worship Center.
Kappa Silhouettes host annual toy drive
By AFRO Staff On Nov. 22 the Kappa Silhouettes held their annual toy drive. For more than a decade the Silhouettes have been a driving force behind the Christmas cheer experienced by families across Baltimore City. Over 100 toys donated by those in attendance. From dolls to art sets and learning games and small keyboards, […]
Associated Black Charities announces the state of Black America: A national virtual revival for faith leaders, activists and community
Associated Black Charities will host a national virtual revival that will unite faith leaders, activists and community members in a call for renewed purpose and justice. Attendees nationwide will join ABC in renewing their commitment to justice and will answer a collective call to action for a more equitable future.
Investing in Baltimore’s Future and in Baltimore’s People
Baltimore Community Foundation Learn more about BCF’s investing portfolio and how to get involved here.
CLLCTIVLY’s Martin fellowship builds a regenerative network for Baltimore’s upliftment
A new generation of Black social innovators is reshaping Baltimore’s future through the Drs. Elmer & Joanne Martin Social Impact Fellowship, a six-month program by CLLCTIVLY that nurtures collaboration, cultural leadership and community wealth across the city’s arts, education, health and technology sectors.
Restaurants, city agencies step up to support workers and families facing food and housing insecurity
By Chianti Marks and Victoria MejicanosAFRO Intern, AFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com While the Trump administration and lawmakers in Congress played political brinkmanship over the budget, leaving the well-being of millions hanging in the balance, organizations, local government agencies and corporations in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., have been offering support to furloughed federal workers and residents impacted […]

