Programs and Expectations

Homelessness comes at a severe cost to individuals, families, and to our community. Serious health care and societal issues are both a cause and a result of homelessness.

The State of Maryland spends millions of dollars annually to manage the consequences of homelessness. The cost to Anne Arundel County for an average hospital stay for a Marylander without insurance is $8400; one night in a public mental health facility is $500; one day in jail is $61. These costs result in very little improvement in the life of a homeless person. However, in comparison, a one-night stay at the Light House costs just $50 a person, with the further benefit of support services that can help that person achieve independence.

The recent rise in homelessness is attributed to the growing shortage of affordable housing, rising costs of health care, medical insurance, and poverty. Anne Arundel County is an expensive place to live. To afford median rent in our region, a family must earn $18.10 per hour – far above the average minimum wage of $6.15 that many workers are paid.

We serve both individuals and families year-round, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Of those participating in the Light House program, 75% leave empowered with a place to live, an income, and the ability to lead self-sufficient lives.

• 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 Program distributed 1,000 bags of groceries to people who had to choose between going hungry or paying for rent. In addition, our Bag Lunch Program supplied the 12,000 mid-day meals during the work week to anyone who was in need.
  
  
• Emergency Shelter is provided with 5 beds for women, 13 beds for men, and two apartments for families with children. Guests are welcome to stay up to 90 days if they remain employed, and alcohol and drug free. If funds are available, additional emergency motel rooms are provided for mothers and children.
  
  New arrivals first receive a mental health evaluation from a licensed social worker to identify specific issues. If guests require medical care or special counseling, staff members arrange for them to be seen at an appropriate government, nonprofit, or health care agency. The Light House works with many community partners to deliver a wide range of services and support.
  
  Once guests are enrolled, a caseworker helps them create a personalized plan with specific goals. Guests may remain at the shelter so long as they make progress toward these goals, remain employed, refrain from using illegal drugs or alcohol, and properly take prescribed medication. The Light House has a “zero tolerance” policy regarding the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and weapons among our guests. Loitering and panhandling are not permitted. Guests are required to leave by 9:00 a.m. each day to attend or find work.
  
  We encourage a strong work ethic among our guests. Once employed, guests must save 80% of their earnings. As guests approach independence, case workers help them to ensure a successful transition into their new circumstances. After benefiting from our services, the majority of our guests are able to support themselves and their families.
  
  
• Transitional Housing is given to homeless families with minor children who are ready to move from our emergency shelter to the next step of self-sufficiency. Our Anchor House Program provides accommodations in two apartments and one single-family house for up to two years.
  
  The goal is to preserve and strengthen the family unit so that it becomes the primary vehicle for preventing poverty. This is accomplished by utilizing services that nurture independence and prepare the family to become contributing members of the community. When the family is ready, Anchor House staff helps them find permanent housing. At both the Light House and Anchor House, professional caseworkers help our guests establish goals that will assist them in regaining self-sufficiency. Wherever possible, we refer guests to established programs and services within the community. A mental health advocate is on staff to assess mental health needs and make recommendations for treatment if necessary.
  
  Willow House is our newest program, offering permanent housing and providing support, education, and assistance to four homeless women. In the summer of 2008, renovations were completed on a former office space, transforming it into a quaint five-bedroom residence for homeless women. Willow House residents must complete an eligibility program prior to admittance. Residents may stay at Willow House as long as they continue to work towards their goals and meet other employment, clean criminal background and substance abuse requirements. While residing at Willow House, residents are able to learn the skills necessary to become self-sufficient and to resolve issues that have caused their homelessness, such as obtaining education and employment. These goals are attained through partnerships with local community organizations to create a network of mentors and coaches who instruct and support the women’s progress. Residents receive guidance and supervision from a live-in resident manager.
  
  
• 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.
  
  The Light House Employment Resource Room contains a computer lab which provides clients with the resources needed to write resumes, job search, develop interview skills, gain job training, and offer support once employment has been obtained. A private room is also available for counseling sessions in substance abuse, domestic violence, mental health issues and for after school tutoring.