Meet Dyvon
(Photo by Nina K Photography)
When Dyvon first arrived at The Light House, the thought of returning to a stable life felt out of reach. He knew he had to keep going, but he didn’t know how to rebuild.
After graduating high school in Anne Arundel County, Dyvon spent many years working in healthcare administration. He did his best to support himself and save for the future, but making ends meet was always a challenge.
For years, Dyvon managed his health on his own. But the ongoing stress of work, bills, and life eventually took its toll.
“My health went downhill fast as I got older,” he shared. “Eventually, I had to have my leg amputated. I spent a short time in physical rehab, and after that, a friend was kind enough to let me stay with him while I sorted things out.”
But that arrangement didn’t last. Soon after, Dyvon’s friend had to sell his home and there was no longer space for him to stay. He managed to pay for a hotel for about a week—but with limited savings, he quickly ran out of options. The thought of being unsheltered and in a wheelchair was devastating.
Dyvon’s story mirrors what many seniors in our county are facing. Senior homelessness has been steadily increasing over the past decade. With the soaring cost of living and a critical lack of affordable housing, more and more older adults with limited retirement income are being pushed into crisis. On top of this, 95% of seniors live with at least one chronic condition—and nearly 80% live with two or more.
Thankfully, Dyvon was referred to The Light House and he began his path back to stability. He entered the Residential Program, where he was provided with a safe place to sleep, nutritious meals, and vital wraparound care. With the support of his Light House Client Advocate, he was able to coordinate medical care, access transportation, begin searching for long-term housing, and start managing his health again.
“With my condition, I need to follow a strict diet,” Dyvon explained. “When I was at The Light House, Chef Chip made sure my meals were exactly what I needed. The staff really cared and accommodated my needs every single day.”
Dyvon made remarkable progress during his time at The Light House and we’re proud to share that he recently moved into his very own senior living apartment. Thanks to the generosity of Light House supporters and community partners, Dyvon was also provided with furniture, linens, cleaning supplies, and kitchen essentials—everything he needed to begin again with dignity.
“Now I have my own kitchen. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to cook for myself again and have my own space.”
“The goal was to get me somewhere secure and help me live independently. That’s what The Light House said they could help me do and that’s exactly what they made happen. I’m so grateful for where I am and for the people who helped me get here.”
Stories like Dyvon’s are only possible because of people like you.
Your support of The Light House ensures that we can continue providing shelter, compassionate case management, nutritious meals, and the critical care our neighbors need to heal and thrive.
Give now and be a part of someone’s journey home.
