POIEMA Opens El Roi House, Expanding Support For Women And Children In Crisis

WALDORF, Md. — The Poiema Movement, a Southern Maryland nonprofit that provides long-term transitional housing and wraparound support for women in crisis, celebrated the ribbon cutting of El Roi House on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. The residence is the organization’s first home that allows mothers and their young children to live onsite, marking a major expansion of its mission to keep families together during recovery.

El Roi House joins two existing Poiema residences in Waldorf, which house women only. The new home provides a stable, trauma-informed environment where families can remain together while receiving case management, employment coaching, parenting support, financial literacy training and life-skills development. Women may remain in the program for up to two years — with an average stay of about 16 months — giving them time to heal, rebuild credit and work toward long-term independence.

Ribbon-Cutting

The event was held at a local church that offered a calm and welcoming setting for guests. Despite the peaceful atmosphere, the room carried a clear sense of excitement as community members, local leaders and partners gathered to celebrate the milestone. Attendees filled the space with an energy that reflected strong community support for the project and an understanding of how vital the new home will be for families in need.

The program included a welcome from Renee Williams White, opening remarks by Executive Director Tiffany Barber, and founder remarks from Pastor Michael Rogalski and Angela Rogalski.

Graduate Nicole Iriarte shared her testimony about the program’s impact. State and county leaders — including Del. Debra Davis, Del. Edith Patterson and Christie Burnett of the Charles County Charitable Trust — also spoke, highlighting the community’s commitment to strengthening resources for women and children.

After a video presentation and closing remarks, attendees joined the ceremonial ribbon cutting and dedication before touring the 6,000-square-foot home. The residence features private family quarters, communal living and dining areas, child-friendly spaces and an outdoor area designed for safe gathering and play.

Community Support

The project was funded through grants, donations, volunteer labor and in-kind contributions. MAK Remodeling, a longtime partner, served as general contractor after previously contributing renovations to Poiēma’s two existing homes. Significant financial support came from the Charles County Delegation and the Charles County Charitable Trust.

In addition to construction support, community organizations played a key role in furnishing and preparing the home for families. The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Nu Zeta Omega Chapter created the “Playroom of Possibilities,” a fully functional, child-focused space at El Roi House. The room is filled with hundreds of books, toys and developmental items, transforming it into a warm, welcoming area designed to bring comfort, joy and a sense of love to the young children who will enter the program.

Leaders say the waiting list grows daily as more women seek help. Women who may be in crisis and seeking transitional housing are encouraged to apply through the “Apply” section at www.PoiemaMovement.com or by calling 301-645-1007 for more information.

Poiēma recognized the following supporters for their contributions to the El Roi House project:

Poiēma also thanked the many volunteers, donors and partners whose support helped bring the family-centered home to life.

How You Can Help

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.

To volunteer, donate or learn more, visit www.PoiemaMovement.com
Email: info@PoiemaMovement.com | Phone: 301-645-1007