About us
More than 45 years of
neighbors helping neighbors.
Southwest Emergency Services is a Christian-based nonprofit founded by a coalition of local congregations to help individuals and families in need in Southwest Baltimore County.
Our mission
Southwest Emergency Services (SWES) is a Christian-based nonprofit organization whose goal is to help people and families in need by providing nutritional assistance through our Food Pantry, and financial assistance to families who are facing eviction and/or electric/gas shutoffs.
Our mission is to both give and receive from our neighbors, knowing that we are all part of the human family and that we are equally equipped to serve each other.
SWES is managed by an all-volunteer board and staff, and over 90 percent of donations go directly to support our ministries.
Our history
Southwest Emergency Services, Inc. (SWES) was established more than 45 years ago when a group of members from local churches started helping folks in the community with essential needs, such as food, clothing, and other types of assistance.
The Catholic Community at Relay provided space in their basement for this nascent ministry, until a larger space became necessary. With the support of a local business owner, SWES was able to acquire its own building on the campus of the Arbutus United Methodist Church.
Since then, the AUMC community as well as churches in the surrounding area have faithfully supported SWES’ mission. The SWES board is comprised of representatives from these partner churches as well as individuals from the community.
Why support SWES?
More than 45 years in the same neighborhood, run entirely by volunteers.
90%+
Goes to clients
Over 90 percent of donations go directly to our clients as food and financial assistance.
45+
Years serving
Founded more than 45 years ago by members of local churches.
10
Partner churches
Founded and sustained by a coalition of local congregations across Southwest Baltimore County.
501(c)(3)
Tax deductible
A registered nonprofit managed by an all-volunteer board and staff.
“Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?” The King will reply,
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Matthew 25:37–40
Partner churches
SWES was founded and is operated by a coalition of local churches. The SWES Board is made up of representatives of these ten partner churches.
Our partner churches
- Arbutus United Methodist Church
- Catholic Community at Relay
- Catholic Community of Ascension and St. Augustine
- Catonsville United Methodist Church
- Charlestown United Protestant Church
- Christ United Methodist Church of Baltimore County
- The Church of the Holy Apostles & St. Stephen
- Halethorpe-Relay United Methodist Church
- Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Community (Charlestown)
- Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church
Get involved
Be part of it
SWES runs on volunteers and the generosity of our neighbors. Give a few hours a week, or a gift of any size.