2025 Longest Night Homeless Persons’ Memorial Service

Arundel House of Hope joined members of the community alongside local officials at The People’s Park on December 19th to commemorate The Longest Night Homeless Persons’ Memorial Service. In concert with cities across the nation, we came together just before the longest night of the year, winter solstice, to honor the lives of Anne Arundel County residents that lost their lives this year while facing homelessness. Each organization involved pledged commitment and dedication to our unhoused neighbors in 2026 as one way to honor those we lost in 2025.

The memorial was opened with remarks by The Lighthouse, Inc. Executive Director David Alt who shined a light on the strength of those facing homelessness and the dignity that each and every life deserves. Aaron Rosa, Missionary with Estuary, led prayer, followed by remarks from County Executive Steuart Pittman. Pastor Isaac Vineyard of College Creek Church went on to share heartfelt insight reminding us of the importance of community and restored hope. The names of 26 cherished County residents were then read aloud, including a personal remembrance given by Arundel House of Hope’s Mario Berninzoni.

We are so appreciative of everyone that came together to make this night a success and honor each friend that was lost this year. A special thanks to Light House Bistro for providing cookies and hot cocoa and to the Coalition to End Homelessness for their support. May next year be filled with community, health, and hope for us all.

Quotes from the evening:

“Many of those individuals [we remember tonight] never received a funeral, a headline, or a public acknowledgment. Tonight, we give them the dignity of being seen, heard, and remembered.” -Remarks by David Alt, Executive Director of the Lighthouse

“Their perseverance in the face of chronic hardship reminds us all how powerful the human spirit can be—on the courage it takes to survive, to hope, and to keep moving forward despite overwhelming odds.” -Remarks by David Alt, Executive Director of the Lighthouse

“To be without a home does not mean you are without love, or without family… You are not without dignity, value, and worth.” -Remarks by Pastor Issac Vineyard

“It is our responsibility to honor their lives by fighting for justice, for dignity, for basic rights… and to not be quiet until all people in our society are treated with respect and are able to flourish.” -Remarks by Pastor Issac Vineyard