Amidst a critical housing crisis coupled with an opioid crisis, Lighthouse Recovery’s residences provide safe, affordable housing for those lacking resources or support networks. The Lowe’s Hometowns project includes both interior and exterior work including new energy efficient windows, siding, garage doors, landscaping, and bathroom updates as well as flooring and some kitchen work. These major upgrades would provide safe, affordable housing when it is needed most.

The Jefferson Elementary School’s outdoor space has become completely run down. The elementary school will repaint the blacktop with games and artwork that bring color and fun to the students’ day. In addition they will plant trees, add new playground equipment and murals that showcase the culture of Mount Vernon to lift spirits and make this school feel like a wonderful place to belong.

The Jamison Children’s Center is a safe space for victims of violence, neglect, exploitation, physical, and sexual abuse. The Lowe’s Hometowns grant will be used to install a shade structure over the basketball court and outdoor area at the center, which is often too hot to play on in the summer months. It will also allow other outside activities to be held for the children at the center, such as an ice cream social, arts and crafts, birthday parties, and more.

Huntington Children's Museum will create a STEAM-focused indoor learning space where exhibits and activities cater to children's specific interests and abilities. Updates to the outside of the museum include replacing exterior lights, stucco, exterior trim, doors, windows, paint and more. A resealed parking area will be added. Inside mechanical, electrical and HVAC services will all occur to get this museum up and running.

Humility Homes and Services, Inc. is committed to ending homelessness by offering housing opportunities and supportive services in the greater quad cities area. With the Lowe’s Hometowns grant, the organization will add a two-bedroom affordable housing unit, which can properly house a family in need. In addition, laundry facilities will be added for all tenants living at the property.

For pet owners who are experiencing financial difficulties, the Human Society of Charles County is a vital resource. A new pet holding space with new flooring, new washers and dryers, fresh paint and an education and exercise training barn will streamline adoptions and give more room to these animals who have been separated from their families. It will make the shelter healthier for the animals, staff, and volunteers.

The House of Ruth supports the need of formerly homeless women. By improving the exterior of the building that houses program participants and by beautifying the yard, residents will feel at home in a building with more welcoming aesthetics, which in turn will have a positive impact on the surrounding neighborhood.

The Henderson Volunteer Fire Department kitchen remodel would be the first time the original kitchen has been updated since the 1960s. With new plumbing, electric, appliances, cabinets, countertops, lighting, flooring, and more this complete kitchen flip would be an important focal point for the small community of Henderson.

Nominated by music superstar and Tuskegee, Ala. native Lionel Richie, Hello Park will become the first public park of its kind available to residents in the community. Located directly across from the campus of Tuskegee University, this undeveloped land will be turned into a beautiful outdoor space for members of the community to gather, to personally connect with nature and to embrace the history of Tuskegee for decades to come.

The Growing Roots Garden will become a place to grow and learn for the students of Emerson Middle School. A place to gather and learn about health, nutrition and the benefits that connecting with nature can have on stress. With 96% of students qualifying for the free or reduced-price lunch program, the outdoor space will put an emphasis on outdoor activities such as participating in the school garden and consuming nutritious foods grown by the students.