Homeless Shelter Gifted Large Donation By Anonymous Resident

ANNAPOLIS, MD — An anonymous donor gave $1 million to The Light House Homeless Prevention Support Center, the Annapolis shelter announced Monday. The funding will help the transitional housing nonprofit provide:

• More housing for people experiencing homelessness
• More services to prevent homelessness
• New mental health and substance abuse resources
• New workforce development initiatives
• A robust food pantry

"Words fail me as I try to express the depth of my gratitude," Light House Executive Director Jo Ann Mattson said in a press release. "This generous gift allows us to do more than we ever imagined."

The donation will help the Light House ramp up its offerings when they are needed most. The coronavirus pandemic has multiplied the demand for the group's resources.

Last year, the organization served 200 percent more people through its food initiatives and 40 percent more people overall. Altogether, the Light House distributed 305,000 pounds of food in 2020.

"The Light House is strong and prepared to help our community continue to weather this crisis," Mattson added. "I can never thank this foundation and the local trustee enough for being an enthusiastic advocate for those who need it most."

For more information on The Light House, head to annapolislighthouse.org.

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