Demarcus (age 11), Bobby (age 9), Rayshad (age 7) and their younger sister, Angel (age 5), have grown up in the LightHouse program. They started at the Bossier location in the housing projects on Scott Street. The LightHouse provided a sanctuary from the violence and drugs of the neighborhood.
As well, it alleviated some of the burden from their mom, Angela. She works hard just to keep the kids fed and clothed, and sometimes homework is too much to handle. Her hard work paid off when the family was able to move to their own house in Shreveport this year. The only downside was losing their neighborhood LightHouse.
“Demarcus has been in The LightHouse 4 years and it is a big help,” Angela said. “He makes straight A’s.” Academics come first at the after-school program, where signs on the wall remind students “There is no such thing as no homework.” From there the staff emphasizes character, community service and healthy living. After the move, Angela called the Bossier director. “I just can’t help my boys with their homework, I need them in The Lighthouse.” They were able to find a place in the Downtown location, and the children are settling into their new town. Demarcus and Bobby have both had mentors, who provide a positive male influence and extra guidance. “Thank you to The LightHouse for all it has done for me,” Demarcus said. “Their help has been a huge blessing.” The LightHouse is funded in part by The Community Foundation of North Louisiana and the United Way Fund of the Community Foundation.