Three summers ago, as an incoming Freshman at St. Mary’s High School, Ethan contacted The Light House asking for guidance on how to organize a food drive for our Client Choice Pantry. The Light House, a local nonprofit organization serving individuals and families struggling with homelessness and hunger, relies heavily on donations of food for our hunger relief programs.

When Ethan first contacted The Light House, he was focused on how he could organize a food drive through his Hunt Meadow Swim Team and neighborhood in the best possible way. Ethan was thoughtful and wanted to know what items would be most impactful, what he could do to make sure he was following the best process, and how to also spread awareness about The Light House and the issue of homelessness and hunger. Ethan’s first food drive was a huge success and each year following he would raise even more!

“Ethan is an amazing young man. He’s extremely focused and organized, but most of all, he’s kind,” shared Light House Procurement Manager, Kelly Rulle. “From day one he showed maturity, integrity, and professionalism. He worked diligently on his first drive coming up with the theme, “Be a Champion in and out of the Pool.” He collected items for our pantry at his swim club and in his neighborhood. Before he posted the flyers he made, he ensured he had prior approval from board members of the pool and his neighborhood HOA. Ethan had a timeline for advertising, collection, and delivery and he stuck to it. He did all the hard work, even bringing donations home on his bike if he had to! “

Excited to make his drive an annual event, Ethan reached out again the following two summers. During his most recent 2024 drive, Ethan completed his third successful drive with the theme, “Grab & Go Summer” which focused on quick and convenient foods that chronically homeless community members rely on. While dropping off these donations to The Light House, Ethan told Kelly Rulle that he was already thinking about ideas for next year’s drive! Overall, Ethan has donated a combined total of 876 pounds of food over the past three years, which has all gone directly to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.

“With the cost of inflation making food and other supplies more expensive than ever, keeping our pantry stocked with food donations has been a heavy lift these past few years,” shared Light House Interim Executive Director, Jenny Crawford. “We’re experiencing more individuals and families seeking our services each day, and we rely on the energy and generosity of community members like Ethan to keep our shelves stocked. Ethan is a champion in uplifting his community and we are tremendously grateful for his efforts!”

The Light House distributes over 2,800 pounds of perishable and non-perishable food to individuals and families in Anne Arundel County each week. Donation drives, like Ethan’s, are what keeps this pantry program going. The Light House’s many homelessness prevention and support programs also provides shelter, clothing, case management, and other vital services to thousands of community members in need annually.