Maryland nonprofit aims to inspire with special Father's Day lunch

A Maryland nonprofit group hosted a special Father’s Day luncheon Thursday in an effort to support homeless men in the community.

The event at Fort Washington, hosted by ANEW Inspired Change, aimed to bring joy and a sense of belonging to homeless fathers.

It was a gesture of compassion, respect and hope.

“We go to a lot of recovery, mental health and reentry programs and invite their men to be pampered for a day,” explained Porshia Everett, program director of ANEW Inspired Change.

The group, based in Prince George’s County, helps people who are struggling and fosters an environment in which they can thrive.

More than 60 men signed up for the luncheon.

“Everyone here is impacted by homelessness,” Everett said.

Lunch included steak, shrimp scampi, chicken, macaroni and cheese, and mashed potatoes, but that wasn’t the only perk for attendees.

They also received free suits and haircuts.

“They can wear the suit and go on a job interview,” Everett said. “We use it as a platform to build and inspire.”

The meal was prepared by local chefs who donated their time and skills.

Some attendees were from A Step Forward, an organization that provides support services to people recovering from drug and alcohol abuse.

Robert Alston, one of the organization’s leaders, said the lunch sent a strong message.

“They welcome you with open arms, you meet your peers and you know you’re not alone,” Alston said. “It elevates you.”

The luncheon was also an opportunity for community members to come together and show their support, according to Lanise Thompson, community outreach manager at Wellpoint, the managed care plan for Medicaid insurance in Maryland.

Wellpoint helped organize the event.

“The big benefit is that it uplifts men and makes them feel special,” Thompson said. “They go through the programs they’re in, and they accomplish a lot, and we’re here to support them.”

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