NEWBURG, Md. — On June 26, 2025, Southern Crossing, a new transitional housing facility, opened its doors in Newburg, transforming the once-abandoned White House Motel on US-301 into a beacon of hope for those experiencing homelessness or financial instability. The grand opening of the North Wing, featuring 10 private units, marked a significant milestone for Southern Maryland’s first facility of its kind, aimed at providing dignity, support, and a path to independence for residents.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by local leaders, community supporters, and representatives from partnering organizations, celebrated the culmination of years of effort to repurpose a site previously marred by drugs and neglect. LifeStyles of Maryland, the organization behind the project, envisions Southern Crossing as more than a temporary shelter—it’s a launchpad for transformation, offering independent living with tailored support services.
“People just discarded it, the same way they discard so many of the people we serve,” said LifeStyles CEO Sandy Washington during the event. “I’m telling you, put a little investment in people. They’re worth it.”
The North Wing’s 10 units are the first phase of a broader plan to expand Southern Crossing’s capacity. The facility targets individuals and families who are homeless or on the brink of losing stable housing. Residents will receive personalized guidance, life skills training, and resources to transition toward permanent housing through the Coordinated Entry System. Chief Operating Officer Corae Young emphasized the project’s broader mission: “This project is not only to serve those who are homeless, but also those who are just barely making it. We’re giving them an opportunity to rebirth themselves.”
The grand opening highlighted the community’s role in bringing Southern Crossing to life. Kathy Guzman, president of the Charles County Chamber of Commerce, shared her personal connection to LifeStyles’ mission. “Twenty-five years ago, I came to LifeStyles for help,” she said. “The evolution of what a person can become, I’m living proof.” Her story underscored the potential for transformation when individuals are given support and opportunity.
Local and regional partners also played a critical role. Congressman Steny Hoyer’s office presented an American flag to fly at the facility, symbolizing federal support. Charles County Commissioners President Reuben Collins gifted the official county seal, reflecting the local government’s commitment. A surprise announcement from Wells Fargo, pledging an additional $85,000 in funding, further bolstered the project’s future.
The transformation of the White House Motel required collaboration from numerous businesses, including The Wills Group, Chick-fil-A, and SE Davis Construction, among others. Their contributions, combined with LifeStyles’ vision, turned a dilapidated property into a safe, dignified space. “This motel was empty, broken, drug-infested, and everyone thought it was no good,” Washington said. “We saw potential where others saw decay.”
Southern Crossing’s operational model emphasizes autonomy and respect. Residents will live independently in private units while accessing programs designed to build confidence and prepare them for self-sufficiency. As Young noted, “Our goal is to provide a learning environment in a supportive manner, while also providing households the dignity and respect they deserve to live autonomously.”
The procedural aspects of Southern Crossing’s development highlight the complexity of such projects. LifeStyles navigated zoning approvals, funding challenges, and community concerns to repurpose the motel. The Coordinated Entry System, a nationwide standardized framework, ensures equitable access to housing resources by assessing individuals’ needs and connecting them with appropriate services. This system will be central to Southern Crossing’s operations, ensuring residents receive comprehensive support.
The legal context of transitional housing in Maryland also underscores the project’s significance. State and local regulations require facilities to meet strict safety and habitability standards, which Southern Crossing has achieved through extensive renovations. Additionally, Maryland’s focus on addressing homelessness through coordinated care aligns with LifeStyles’ mission, positioning Southern Crossing as a model for future initiatives.
Looking ahead, LifeStyles plans to expand Southern Crossing with additional units and programs. The North Wing’s opening is just the beginning, with residents expected to move in soon. The facility’s success will depend on continued community support and funding, as well as its ability to deliver measurable outcomes for residents.
Southern Crossing’s journey from an abandoned motel to a place of promise reflects a shared belief in second chances. The project stands as a testament to what’s possible when communities invest in their most vulnerable members, offering shelter and a foundation for lasting change.