Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Maryland, Inc .
$100,000 / 2008 / Health and Human Services
For continued support and expansion of the Amachi mentoring program for 650 children of incarcerated parents. The program is designed to match the children with caring and responsible adult mentors while, at the same time, providing case-management support for families, guardians, and volunteers. The program will continue to collect data on outcomes, including school performance, substance use, delinquent behavior, relationships with peers and adults, and degree of achieved self-confidence.
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Metropolitan Baltimore, Inc.
$20,000 / 2008 / Health and Human Services
Toward the cost of leasehold improvements for expansion of existing office space used by NAMI volunteers and staff. Serving more than 7,000 clients a year, NAMI provides educational programs, support groups, training workshops, and other resources for persons with mental illness and their family members. The facility will offer two new meeting areas, dedicated space for volunteers, handicap-accessible facilities, and upgraded HVAC systems.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County
$50,000 / 2008 / Health and Human Services
Toward the implementation of Project Learn, an after-school mentoring program for 300 at-risk youth in the O’Donnell Heights and Brooklyn/Curtis Bay communities. Project Learn activities include Power Hour—the first hour of the afternoon activities set aside for children to complete homework, receive tutoring, and work on computers, as well as art activities, health education, and recreational activities. In addition, the program emphasizes parent involvement in club activities.
Nehemiah House, Inc.
$5,000 / 2008 / Health and Human Services
For the purchase of appliances and furniture replacement for a homeless shelter for adult men. Nehemiah House provides shelter and meals, and makes medical/mental health and substance abuse treatment referrals.
Catholic Charities/The Samaritan Center
$100,000 / 2008 / Health and Human Services
Two grants for continued support of eviction prevention and traveler’s aide programs administered by The Samaritan Center. The center provides direct financial assistance to homeless and low-income individuals in Baltimore City, helping them avoid eviction and utility termination, and providing transportation vouchers to those stranded in Baltimore without lodging. Clients are referred to other counseling services to obtain income support, such as food stamps, Medicaid, Earned Income Tax Credits, and referrals to job training and placement.