Fisher House 1

### Discover Fisher House 1: A Pillar of Support for Military and Veteran Families in Maryland

For Maryland residents, especially those with connections to our nation’s military and veteran communities, understanding the invaluable resources available locally is incredibly important. Among these, Fisher House 1 in Bethesda stands out as a beacon of compassion and support. It’s not a typical hotel in the commercial sense; rather, it’s a “home away from home” specifically designed to provide free, temporary lodging for military and veteran families while their loved ones are receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Fisher House 1, highlighting its purpose, location, services, and why it’s such a crucial local resource for families navigating challenging medical journeys. From its compassionate mission to its practical amenities, Fisher House 1 embodies the spirit of community support right here in Maryland.

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### Location and Accessibility

Fisher House 1 is located in Bethesda, MD 20814, USA. While the exact street address isn't publicly listed for security and privacy reasons related to its residents, its placement in Bethesda indicates its close proximity to major medical facilities. Specifically, Fisher Houses are strategically built on the grounds of military and VA medical centers. In Bethesda's case, this means it is located near the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) and potentially other medical facilities in the area.

This location is critical for the families it serves. Being on or very near the medical campus significantly reduces the burden of travel, allowing families to be just steps away from their loved ones during critical times. For local Maryland residents, especially those who may need to visit family members receiving care at WRNMMC, understanding that such a supportive lodging option exists nearby is invaluable.

Accessibility to Fisher House 1 would typically involve travel by car, given its nature as a facility tied to a medical center. However, Bethesda itself is a highly accessible area within Montgomery County, with access to major roadways like I-270 and I-495 (the Capital Beltway). Public transportation options, including the Bethesda Metro Station (Red Line), are available in the broader Bethesda area, offering connections throughout the Washington D.C. metropolitan region. While direct public transport to the Fisher House itself might require a short taxi or ride-share from the Metro, its primary benefit lies in its immediate proximity to the medical care facility.

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### Services Offered

Fisher House 1 operates with a singular focus: providing comfort and support to military and veteran families. The services are tailored to meet the unique needs of guests who are often under significant stress. While specific offerings can vary slightly between individual Fisher Houses, the core services typically include:

• Free, Temporary Lodging: The most significant service is providing free accommodation, alleviating the financial burden of hotel stays for families who need to be close to their hospitalized loved ones.

• Private Guest Rooms: Each family is provided with a private guest room. Based on user reviews, these rooms often come with their own private restroom and a television, offering a much-needed personal space for rest and privacy.

• Common Living Areas: Fisher Houses are designed with communal spaces to foster a sense of community and support among guests. These often include a shared kitchen, living room, dining room, and laundry facilities. This setup allows families to prepare their own meals, reducing dining expenses, and connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges.

• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are typically available for guest use, which is a practical necessity for extended stays.

• Kitchen Access: A fully equipped kitchen is usually a central feature, allowing families to cook their own meals and maintain some semblance of normalcy during their stay.

• Guest Support: While not a medical facility, Fisher House staff and volunteers often provide emotional support and connect families with other resources as needed.

• Parking: Given its location on or near a medical campus, parking is typically available for guests.

• Wi-Fi Access: Access to Wi-Fi is generally provided, allowing families to stay connected with loved ones and manage their affairs.

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### Features / Highlights

Fisher House 1, like all Fisher Houses, is characterized by features that prioritize the well-being and convenience of its guests. These highlights underscore its mission of care:

• Home-Like Environment: The overarching feature is its intentional design to feel like a comfortable home, not a sterile medical facility or a commercial hotel. This atmosphere is crucial for families coping with stress.

• Compassionate Community: One of the most powerful features is the built-in community. Families staying at a Fisher House often find support and understanding from others facing similar circumstances. This shared experience can be incredibly comforting.

• Proximity to Medical Care: Its location directly on or adjacent to the military or VA medical center means families are just minutes away from their hospitalized loved one, offering peace of mind and ease of access for visits.

• Dedicated Private Rooms: The provision of private rooms, often with en-suite bathrooms, offers essential privacy and a personal sanctuary for families during difficult times.

• Focus on Military and Veteran Families: This is a unique and defining feature. Fisher House 1 is exclusively dedicated to supporting military and veteran families, ensuring that resources are channeled directly to those who have served our nation.

• Support from the Fisher House Foundation: The operation of Fisher House 1 is supported by the broader Fisher House Foundation, a highly respected non-profit organization known for its commitment to military families. This ensures consistent standards of care and support.

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### Promotions or Special Offers

It's important to clarify that Fisher House 1 does not offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional commercial sense. This is because the core service it provides – free lodging for military and veteran families – is already a form of continuous, invaluable support. Fisher Houses are funded through donations to the Fisher House Foundation, allowing them to offer their services at no cost to eligible families.

Therefore, instead of looking for discounts or promotions, families seeking to stay at Fisher House 1 should focus on understanding the eligibility criteria, which typically include having a loved one receiving care at a nearby military or VA medical facility. Referrals usually come through the medical center's social work or patient liaison services.

For those looking to "support" Fisher House 1, the "special offer" is the opportunity to contribute to their mission through donations to the Fisher House Foundation, helping to ensure these vital services remain free for military and veteran families.

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### Contact Information

For specific inquiries about Fisher House 1 in Bethesda, or to understand the referral process, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: Bethesda, MD 20814, USA (Exact street address is often kept private for security; inquiries typically go through the main phone number or the medical facility's social work department).

• Phone: (301) 295-5334

• Mobile Phone: +1 301-295-5334

It's always recommended to contact the medical center's patient support services first, as they are typically the gateway for referrals and eligibility for Fisher House stays.

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### Conclusion: Why Fisher House 1 is Suitable for Locals

For locals in Maryland, particularly those with ties to the military or veteran community, Fisher House 1 in Bethesda is far more than just a place to stay; it's a vital, compassionate lifeline. Its suitability for locals lies in its unique mission and the critical support it provides. If a loved one is receiving medical care at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center or another major military/VA facility nearby, Fisher House 1 offers an unparalleled "home away from home" experience.

It alleviates the immense financial and emotional burden of finding accommodation during a medical crisis, allowing families to focus on recovery and support. The home-like environment, complete with private rooms and communal areas, fosters a sense of normalcy and community during incredibly challenging times. For Marylanders, knowing that such a dedicated and supportive resource exists locally for those who have served our nation, and their families, is a source of pride and a testament to our community's commitment to our heroes. It’s a place that truly makes a difference in the lives of many, embodying the spirit of care and gratitude.