LOWNDES COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) – A major funding loss could have shut down a South Georgia shelter; instead, it sparked an expansion.

Lowndes Associated Ministries to People, Inc. (LAMP) continues to prove that setbacks don’t stop service.

This year, LAMP lost several key grants, including funding for street outreach and emergency shelter services for families with children. But despite those setbacks, the organization is finding new ways to meet community needs — launching LAMP Ignite, a new rapid rehousing program for youth that focuses on young adults ages 18 to 24, including those aging out of foster care. The program provides up to a year of housing and mentorship to help nearly 30 participants get on their feet.

“This really gets them started on their feet,” said Executive Director Yurshema Flanders. “It partners them with a mentor that will help them make the best decisions — just learning those skills that they may have missed along the way.”

Flanders shared the story of Marcus, whose name was changed for privacy, who turned to the streets and addiction after being kicked out by his parents. With LAMP’s help, he’s now back on track and enrolled in school.

“He really told us, ‘If it wasn’t for you guys telling me my life isn’t over — that I still had a chance — I’d probably be in the same situation,’” Flanders said.

Stories like his are inspiring LAMP’s End-of-Year Campaign, “Light the Way Home.” The goal is to be a guiding light for someone in need. With economic uncertainty making stability harder to find, Flanders adds that having a safe place to call home matters now more than ever.

“When you light the way home, you’re making that path bright for somebody that didn’t have a chance,” Flanders said. “You’re opening up the door that might have been closed before — and that’s what LAMP wants to be, that light in someone’s life.”

The campaign officially launches Friday, inviting South Georgians to donate, volunteer, or spread the word — helping LAMP continue giving families and youth a safe place to call home.

For more information about LAMP and its programs, visit their Facebook page here and here.

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