Dear Partners, Donors, and Supporters:
So What Else has received some regrettable news that our lease is being terminated at the Lakeforest Mall due to the recent purchase of the space for redevelopment, and we are required to vacate by March 31st, 2023. We are actively searching for a new space to house our pantry headquarters so that we can continue serving our 455,000 clients without disruption. We are reaching out in the hope that you will support us in our search. While we have been fortunate to lease our current space at Lakeforest Mall for a reasonable $1,500 a month, rent at a new location will likely increase by 500%… so we need your support now more than ever.
Our ideal space would be 10,000 – 12,000 sqare feet, with ample indoor and outdoor area to accommodate our services. An easily navigable parking lot for clients to access our free walk-up food pantry with space for our cold storage unit would be ideal, in addition to an indoor space for reception, our free thrift shop, and storage area for diapers, shelf-stable food, and youth programming materials.
So What Else would love to uplift and revitalize an old, abandoned space if one is available and meets our operational needs. Please visit the space before we close and see the incredible work at the Food Pantry from Sunday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, at 701 Russell Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877.
Our services include:
- A walk-up pantry where we serve 125,000 meals a week
- A free thrift shop with household items and clothing
- A youth development storage space
- A large storage facility for food pallets and 125,000 diapers
While circumstances are not ideal, we know that with the support of passionate individuals such as yourself, we will find a new location to call home and continue to serve the communities in the area. Please keep in mind that our services and operations will continue throughout the transition, and it is our priority to continue meeting the needs of those we serve without disruption.
If you have insight into locations that may be a fit for us or are interested in making a donation to support this effort, please reach out using the contact information provided below.
With gratitude,
Dave Silbert
CEO/Co-Founder, So What Else, Inc.
Email: dsilbert@sowhatelse.org
Phone: (240) 602-0486
One Preserve Parkway Suite 150, Rockville, Maryland 2085
