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Many non-profit organizations throughout Frederick County are continuing to help the public and their members (at least to some degree) during the coronavirus pandemic. Partners In Care is one of those organizations, although COVID-19 has adversely affected their overall efforts.

“We are continuing to drive people to their doctor appointments, the grocery store, the food bank, and elsewhere,” said Frederick County Partners In Care Site Director Randy Gray. Since their members are isolated (due to COVID-19), it has amplified the need for their “Phone Buddy” service. A Phone Buddy is a volunteer who calls a member who may be lonely or in need of some cheering up. The handyman service also remains active, although it’s limited to outdoor work at this time. “The pandemic may have added to the stress levels of some folks, but it doesn’t keep us from calling and trying to comfort our members,” Gray added.

Partners In Care, which has been located in Frederick for more than 20 years, moved to a new location at the beginning of 2020. The non-profit is in the Willowtree Plaza off Route 40 (the Golden Mile). Not only is there an administrative office, but there is also a beautiful, upscale resale boutique.

“The Upscale, Resale Boutique opened in late May observing protocols to keep our volunteers, customers, and staff safe by social distancing, requiring masks to be worn, and frequently using disinfectant,” said Boutique Manager Diana Modelski. “We gratefully accept donations of new and gently loved ladies and men’s clothing, jewelry, artwork, housewares and furniture. Donations are accepted Tuesday through Saturday during business hours (10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.). We are so appreciative of our donations, which we sell to support our heartfelt mission,” said Modelski. “Please help us get the word out!” For more information, please call 301-732-7110 or email FrederickBoutique@partnersincare.org.

Partners In Care is based in Pasadena, Maryland, and was founded in 1993 as a way to help older adults remain independent in their homes. The organization deploys a unique model of “service exchange,” where all members are expected to chip in to help the good of the cause. There are no fees for membership or services. In addition to Frederick and Pasadena, Partners In Care also has an office in Easton, Maryland, and will soon begin operations in Hagerstown, Maryland.

Before COVID-19, the organization would send volunteers into members’ homes to fix leaky faucets, replace batteries in smoke detectors, and take care of many other minor handyman tasks. Partners In Care also hosts presentations and group events for members on various “older adult” topics when not in pandemic lockdown. The Frederick office of Partners In Care recently brought on board Office Coordinator Dawn Hessler and Site Director Randy Gray. For more information about their services, to volunteer, or to make a donation, please call 301-682-7433 or email dawnhessler@partnersincare.org.