In mid-November, the Board of Zoning Appeals voted unanimously to approve a permit for Talbot Interfaith Shelter (TIS) to operate a second shelter facility directly next door to their existing shelter in the heart of downtown Easton. On January 26th, TIS finalized the purchase of the property.
After a few upgrades, including the installation of a fire suppression system, this new shelter will serve single men and women, while the organization’s first shelter, located in a former bed and breakfast called Easton’s Promise, will be converted to a families-only facility.
“This is a big leap forward for our organization,” says TIS Executive Director Julie Lowe. “We have been receiving approximately 25 calls per month from single individuals seeking shelter and assistance with getting back on their feet. It has been heartbreaking to turn people away, and we are looking forward to being able to welcome more of our neighbors into our family in the near future.”
To celebrate the purchase of the new shelter, Talbot Interfaith Shelter is holding a house naming contest. Those with a name suggestion can visit here before Wednesday the 2th to submit their idea. Voting will open on Thursday 29, and the winner will be announced on February 15.
In addition, those looking to provide financial support for the shelter’s expansion now have a unique opportunity to double the impact of their donation. In honor of Marketing and Development Director Jayme Dingler’s 40th birthday, a generous donor offered to match the next $40,000 donated in support of Talbot Interfaith Shelter’s mission. Dingler will also donate $40 each in honor of the first ten people to make a gift as part of the campaign.
She says, “One of the biggest blessings of my entire life is being a part of this incredible organization… As TIS and I are reaching major milestones at the same time, it seems only fitting to celebrate my ‘big day’ by celebrating TIS! Thank you to our generous matching donor for making this possible, and thanks in advance to everyone who contributes. I am humbled and so grateful!”
To make a donation, visit talbotinterfaithshelter.org or mail a check to PO Box 2004, Easton, MD 21601. Contact Jayme at jaymedingler@talbotinterfaithshelter.org or 443-786-4676 to learn about other ways to give.
Bishop Joel Marcus Johnson says
What a giant step for Easton! The very idea that we have two residences for homeless families in transition, and within the historic district of our town, is for rejoicing. The Peace of God be on Easton!