Our Shelter
Who We Are & What We Do
Project ECHO, Inc. is a non-profit organization with a mission to provide hope for the homeless. We have emergency shelter and supportive housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Calvert County, Maryland.
Our shelter, “Lori’s House,” has 40 beds, divided among dorm-style bedrooms and family suites. Beyond beds and meals, we strive to provide a clean, safe, family-friendly environment to those who need it most. Our program provides clients with the opportunity to stabilize their lives while participating in supplemental programs that foster personal growth and independence. Thanks to our community of volunteers, donors, sponsors, and partnering organizations, Project ECHO is much more than just a homeless shelter.
How to Apply
Visit our walk-in clinic on Wednesdays between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. at 484 Main St. Prince Frederick, MD. Please bring a photo id.
For additional information:
Call: 410-535-0044
Email: sh*****@*********ho.net
Facebook message: Project ECHO Homeless Shelter
When Not to Apply
Individuals with open warrants will not be allowed to stay. Individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be asked to come back when they’re sober. Registered sex offenders will not be admitted. These guidelines are designed to ensure the safety and security of our residents, staff, and volunteers. We thank you for understanding.
Length of Stay
Residents are granted free shelter for 45 days from the date of their entry. An additional 45 days may be applied for, but is typically only given to residents who consistently work toward personal goals and have not received negative incident reports during their stay. Residents who violate house rules may receive a suspension for up to five days or be removed from our program entirely.
Please Note
Our space is limited, and an application does not guarantee a bed, especially if none are available.
If you need specific information, please call ahead to ensure that your questions can be addressed at that time. Project ECHO’s office hours are 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday-Friday. Our phone number is 410-535-0044, and we are located at 484 Main Street, Prince Frederick, MD 20678.
Additional Resources
If Project ECHO isn’t the right fit for you or if no beds are available, you may have additional options available through other community agencies.
Safe Nights is a volunteer-run organization that typically operates from late fall to late winter. Interested individuals may apply for Safe Nights through Project ECHO.
Calvert County implements a winter weather plan each year. In extreme, freezing weather, persons seeking warm shelter are always welcome in the lobby of the MSP Barrack U at 210 Main St., Prince Frederick, and in the lobby of the Calvert County Detention Center at 325 Stafford Rd. Barstow.
The Calvert County Homeless Services Board updates Community Resource Guides annually. These guides are often available in locations that serve the homeless, such as Project ECHO, the Department of Social Services (DSS), the Calvert County Health Department, Calvert Behavioral Health, and the Calvert Library.
Our Mission
Project ECHO provides safe shelter, compassionate support, and pathways to stability for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Calvert County. Through counseling, case management, and community partnerships, we offer the resources and guidance people need to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Our Vision
Project ECHO envisions a community where every individual and family has a safe place to call home and the opportunity to thrive. We strive to be a catalyst for change by providing emergency shelter, supportive services, and partnerships that empower people to achieve stability, independence, and lasting hope.
Our Values
Compassion – we treat every person with kindness, empathy, and care.
Dignity – We respect the inherent worth of all residents, staff, volunteers, and partners.
Inclusivity – We welcome individuals from all backgrounds in a safe, non-discriminatory environment.
Empowerment – We equip our residents with the tools and support needed to regain control of their lives and achieve self-sufficiency.
Collaboration – We work hand-in-hand with community partners, volunteers, and supporters to provide comprehensive care.
Integrity – We uphold honesty, transparency, and accountability in every action.
Safety – We are committed to maintaining a secure, stable, and supportive environment for all.
Advocacy – We stand alongside individuals and families experiencing homelessness, ensuring their needs and rights are represented.
Our History
In 1992, the Ecumenical Council of Calvert County formed a task force to start a Homeless shelter. They called it: The Ecumenical Council for the Homeless Organization.
In April 1992, Project ECHO, Inc. was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and in 1993, Calvert Countys first homeless shelter opened on Main Street in Prince Frederick with a total of 16 beds.
In 2000, ECHO expanded with Transitional Housing Programs for families moving out of homelessness.
In 2010, a new shelter was built, and Project ECHO moved to its current residence at 484 Main Street. This new home included a dining room seating 40+ people, an industrial-grade kitchen, meeting and office spaces, indoor and outdoor play areas, and enough rooms to accommodate 40 men, women, and children.
In 2012, a program was added for people in recovery from addiction, and the first Oxford House in Calvert County was established in Saint Leonard.
In 2015, ECHO expanded into Permanent Supportive Housing by introducing a Shared Living Program for chronically homeless individuals. Within two years, a second Oxford House and a second Shared Living House had been established.
In 2017, the organization took steps to increase its fiscal independence by opening the Project ECHO Thrift & Gift Shop, which is also located on Main Street in Prince Frederick.
In 2019, the Recovery Program expanded beyond addiction and began to include therapies for women who have experienced Developmental Trauma.
In 2022, the Shared Living Program was further expanded with the opening of a third house for chronically homeless individuals.
In 2024, Project ECHO suffered a significant loss with the unexpected death of the Executive Director, Lori Heron, whose legacy spans several decades of service to Project ECHO and the homeless community.
To this day, Project ECHO’s staff, board of directors, and dedicated volunteers continue to serve the community in the same loving spirit that has defined this organization for more than 30 years.
