The Memorial Service is scheduled for December 21, 4:30PM at The People’s Park
Annapolis, MD (December 19, 2023) On December 21, 2023, the Anne Arundel and Annapolis Coalition to End Homelessness will host the community’s annual Longest Night Homeless Persons’ Memorial Service to honor and remember the lives of community members who experienced homelessness and tragically lost their lives over the past year. The event will take place at The People’s Park (43 Calvert Street, Annapolis) beginning at 4:30 P.M. Held outdoors on the first day of winter and the longest night of the year, this event is intended to highlight one of the many challenges faced by individuals facing homelessness.
“This event is an important reminder that we must continue our efforts in providing safe and accessible housing opportunities for all of our residents," said County Executive Steuart Pittman. "We come together on this night not only to remember those we have lost, but also as an act of solidarity with our neighbors who still lack a safe place to call home."
Members of the public from all backgrounds and beliefs are encouraged to attend this solemn memorial service to commemorate the people our community has lost and to reaffirm our county’s commitment to ending homelessness.
"This night represents the longest stretch of time without light and warmth our unhoused neighbors will face all year,” said Heather Cassity, Chair of the Coalition to End Homelessness and Executive Director of The Light House. “Now is a time to let our unhoused neighbors know that they are not alone—we are all part of this community and there are many resources available. Now is also a time to ask ourselves what more we can do throughout the year to ensure that all in our community have access to a safe place to live, food on the table, and a brighter future."
The event will include a candlelight vigil, a name-reading ceremony, prayers from various faith traditions, a choral performance, comments from local officials, and an opportunity for community members to share their cherished memories of those who have faced the challenges of homelessness in our community. The service will reflect unity and compassion and will highlight the importance of supporting our homeless neighbors.
For more information, contact Heather Cassity, hcassity@annapolislighthouse.