WALDORF, Md. — The Poiema Movement, a Southern Maryland nonprofit that provides long-term transitional housing and wraparound support for women and their children, is preparing to open its third home this November — the first designed specifically for mothers with children ages 10 and under.
The new residence, called El Roi House — named for the Hebrew phrase meaning “the God who sees me,” symbolizing hope and being seen in times of hardship — joins two existing women-only homes in Waldorf. Leaders say the added capacity will allow mothers and their young children to stay together in a stable, supportive environment while receiving the same structured care that has helped dozens of women rebuild their lives.
A Tour Of The New Home
During a recent visit, Tiffany Barber, executive director; Ruth Proffitt, program director; and Desiree Fenstermacher, development officer, welcomed The BayNet for a guided tour. They led us through bright kitchens ready for family-style meals, freshly painted bedrooms awaiting cribs and bunk beds, and a soon-to-be fenced backyard with a circular firepit gathering space that will offer mothers and their children a safe outdoor area to relax and connect.
Contractors were still finishing final touches during the visit, but a storage closet was already stacked floor to ceiling with donated bedding, children’s clothing, toys and household supplies — ready to help furnish the new home. Staff say additional donations are still welcome to ensure each room is fully stocked and welcoming when the first residents arrive.
Another contributor to the project is Carmel, a longtime Poiema volunteer, who has been restoring donated furniture for El Roi House as well as the first two homes. Using her creativity and craftsmanship, Carmel refinishes each piece so that mismatched donations come together as a cohesive, welcoming space. Poiema leaders say her efforts help ensure the new home feels warm, dignified and beautiful — reflecting the fresh start women and their children will find inside.
More Than Shelter
Poiema serves women recovering from addiction, domestic violence, homelessness, incarceration and other trauma. Its restorative program integrates trauma recovery into case management, employment support, parenting classes and life-skills development — preparing residents for long-term independence.
Women may stay up to two years in private living quarters with access to shared communal areas and transportation to jobs, school events and medical appointments.
Preparing Women For Independence
On average, residents spend about 16 months in the program — longer than most transitional housing models — giving them time to heal, rebuild credit and gain work skills.
A critical graduation goal is meeting typical rental requirements; most local property managers look for a credit score in the 600-to-650 range. Poiema’s staff coach women in budgeting, saving and credit-building so they can qualify for leases and maintain housing stability after they leave.
Community-Funded Expansion
The two existing Poiema homes currently provide space for four women each, while the new 6,000-square-foot El Roi House is designed to accommodate up to five mothers along with their young children.
Local business MAK Remodeling has been a longtime supporter of Poiema. Before becoming the general contractor for the new build, the company donated a fully renovated kitchen to one of the existing houses and has now provided the kitchen for the new El Roi House as well.
The Charles County Delegation and the Charles County Charitable Trust played a pivotal role in making El Roi House a reality, awarding Poiema significant grants that helped cover construction and program costs. The Trust — which invests in local nonprofits addressing urgent community needs — has long supported programs that strengthen families and create lasting change.
Poiema leaders credit the Trust’s funding — along with local donations, partnerships and in-kind support — for turning plans on paper into a nearly finished home that will soon welcome mothers and their children.
“Every crib, chair and caring hand helps open the doors of El Roi House,” the nonprofit emphasizes.
Growing Demand
Leaders say the waiting list grows daily as more women seek help. Currently, eight women are in transition within the existing homes, and the new residence is expected to fill quickly once it opens. Women who may be in crisis and seeking transitional housing are encouraged to apply as soon as possible through the “Apply” section at www.PoiemaMovement.com or by calling 301-645-1007 for more information.
How You Can Help
Bring your group together for a day of purpose. Poiema invites churches, clubs, workplaces and civic groups to volunteer by organizing donations, helping with home projects, preparing meals or hosting activities for residents.
Individuals can also give monthly through the “12:12 Project” ($12 a month), donate gently used furniture, or shop from the Amazon wish lists for children’s items and household supplies.
How Poiema Began
Poiema Movement began as a vision of Pastor Michael and Angela Rogalski, who wanted to create a safe refuge for women in crisis — a place where those facing addiction, trauma or homelessness could find stability and a path forward.
To volunteer, donate or learn more, visit www.PoiemaMovement.com
Address: 10395 Berry Road, Waldorf, MD 20603
Email: info@PoiemaMovement.com | Phone: 301-645-1007
Together, the community can help women and their children heal, rebuild and thrive — one room, one meal and one fresh start at a time.
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