The Light House is a program of the Annapolis Area Ministries, Inc. and supported by the fundraising efforts of the Friends of Light House Shelter, Inc. - both are 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. We depend on the constant financial support and volunteer contributions from many private citizens, members of the the faith-based community, business partners, and government agencies.
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Why We Help
The National Coalition for the Homeless reports that the average age of a homeless person is 9 years old. Last year the Light House was forced to turn away hundreds of homeless people, including 159 children, because of lack of space and funds. Surely here, in America’s wealthiest state - in a county rich in resource and compassion - we can find the means to ensure that basic food, clothing and shelter are available for all our citizens.
How We HelpWe are the only homeless shelter in Anne Arundel County that serves both individuals and families year-round, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Of those helped at the Light House, 75% leave empowered with a place to live, an income, and the ability to lead self-sufficient lives.
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Homeless Prevention Services are offered through financial assistance to avoid utility turn-offs and subsequent eviction. Last year we provided $34,985 to nearly 300 people, preventing them from losing their homes. Our Food Pantry distributed 12,000 bag lunches and 1,000 bags of groceries to people who had to choose between going hungry or paying for rent.
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Emergency Shelter is provided with 5 beds for women, 10 beds for men, and two apartments for mothers with children. Guests are welcome to stay up to 90 days if they remain employed, and alcohol & drug free. If funds are available, additional emergency motel rooms are provided for parents and children.
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Transitional Housing is given to those guests who move from our emergency shelter to the next step of self-sufficiency. Our Anchor House Transitional Housing Program provides accommodations in two apartments and one single-family house for up to two years.
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Support Services are offered by professional caseworkers and staff who help guests obtain health, legal and welfare services. Coaching is also provided in financial management, debt reduction, savings, job training, parenting, and other life skills.
Thanks to nearly 300 dedicated volunteers who support our efforts, each year we are able to deliver quality care to -hundreds of good citizens in need. And in return, each volunteer leaves our shelter with the wonderful feeling of having done great work and making Anne Arundel County a better place to live.
Everyone is welcome to visit the Light House. We invite you to join us to serve breakfasts, lunches and dinners as well as other worthwhile projects. Call us to find out how you, your family, school, community group, and place of worship can assist in our work.
Your financial gifts are crucial to our Shelter! Because of your support we are able to keep our doors open and provide critical help, hope and support to those in need. Without your support we will not be able to serve the hundreds of people a year who rely on us to help rebuild their lives.
- Make a generous tax-deductible contribution to support our work
- Donate groceries, food and toiletries
- Provide services for our shelter and transitional houses
- Volunteer your time, and that of your family, school, or civic group, to help at the shelter