In 2022, Jenifer Zimmer—a dedicated social worker of 20 years—was let go from her job due to downsizing. Jenifer was devastated, but her husband Brian helped her realize that she had a unique opportunity to finally pursue what she really wanted to do: offer people the valuable help that the system doesn’t always provide. Thus, Helping Hands and Caring Hearts was born, and Jenifer hit the ground running! 

    On August 8, 2022, Helping Hands became an official 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to helping those in need with a variety of challenges, from food insecurity to access to professional clothing. Today, in 2025, this amazing organization has grown into six different Frederick locations and a mobile bus unit. 

Helping Hands not only runs full food pantries, they also help those returning to work “dress to impress,” run a clothing boutique for Northern Frederick residents, provide kids with toys and school supplies, and more. All of these valuable services are completely free, and include school lunches and full Thanksgiving meals for those who otherwise couldn’t afford or prepare them. 

The work that Helping Hands does is life-changing. They help entire families, and offer practical comforts and aid that vastly improves the lives of those facing disparity in its many forms. It’s all thanks to Jenifer, whose dedication to giving those in need more than just a phone number to call is the entire reason Helping Hands was created. 

To support Helping Hands, their volunteers, and the people they help, donations are always appreciated. Make sure to follow them on Facebook at hhchearts1 or Instagram at hhchearts to stay up-to-date on all of their events and pop-ups. You can also visit their website at www.helpinghandsandcaringhearts.org for more information. And don’t forget—Helping Hands and Caring Hearts is here to help those in need, so if you know someone who needs support don’t hesitate to reach out.