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. Residents receive personalized case management throughout their stay, and we assist them with referrals to employment and education programs, as well as health and wellness professionals. Through community support, we can provide food, clothing, and toiletries to every resident in Lori’s House, as well as to many former residents.
How to Apply
Visit our walk-in clinic on Wednesdays between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Location: Project ECHO 484 Main St. Prince Frederick, MD.
Phone: 410-535-0044
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 History
In 1992 the Ecumenical Council of Calvert County formed a task force to start a Homeless shelter. They called it: Ecumenical Council for the Homeless Organization. In April 1992, Project ECHO, Inc. was incorporated as a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. The following year, we opened our first emergency shelter, which had 16 beds. In 2010, our current residence at 484 Main Street opened, providing space for 40 men, women, and children.
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. What many people may not know is that Project ECHO is much more than just a homeless shelter.
Recent History:
In 2000, we began our expansion with a Transitional Housing Program for families.
In 2012, we added a program for people in recovery from addiction by opening the first Oxford House in Calvert County.
In 2015, we expanded our efforts in Permanent Supportive Housing with the introduction of a Shared Living Program for chronically homeless individuals.
Next, we opened a second Oxford House and a second Shared Living House.
In 2017, we took steps to increase our fiscal independence by opening the Project ECHO Thrift & Gift Shop.
In 2019, we expanded our Recovery Program to include therapies for women who have experienced Developmental Trauma.
In 2021, we acquired the property at 885 Main Street, where the Project ECHO Thrift & Gift Shop is situated.
In 2022, we further expanded our Shared Living Program by opening a third house for our chronically homeless clients.
Our organization may be small, but the support we receive from this community is mighty. Together, we’re helping people change their lives. If you’d like to get involved, please contact us to learn how you can contribute to the change.
