Lonnie Walker, founder and CEO of J.O.Y Baltimore, was inspired to act and establish the nonprofit in 2015 after experiencing homelessness himself. Walker remains committed to leading a mission that supports runaway, homeless, LGBTQIA+, and displaced youth in Baltimore, assists them with reconnecting with their families and enables them to access essential resources.
“The organization’s goal is to create opportunities for these individuals to thrive while fostering stronger family connections and community ties,” said Walker.
Outreach methods to connect with youth have included street outreach in parks; libraries; transit stations; community events; hotlines; social media engagement; schools; and other community partners.
“While referrals from trusted organizations like schools or healthcare providers are helpful, they’re not required. We’re committed to meeting youth wherever they are,” Walker added.
The grassroots initiative is also dedicated to strengthening low-income Baltimore City families.
“J.O.Y Baltimore provides a range of services, including outreach, job readiness training, connections to housing resources, and more, all aimed at empowering youth and fostering community well-being,” Walker stated.
Youth can access J.O.Y Baltimore Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. J.O.Y Baltimore’s drop-in center and safe space are located at 2116 Charles Street, 1st floor, Baltimore, Maryland 21218. Alternatively, more information can be obtained by emailing Walker at Lwalker@joybaltimore.org, or by calling 443-388-7906.
Loving Arms 2.0, another resource aimed at helping vulnerable young Marylanders is in development. Loving Arms 2.0 will be the rebirth of the original Loving Arms program from 2009 under the leadership of Cindy Williams in a collaborative partnership with J.O.Y. Baltimore. J.O.Y Baltimore will be the program coordinator, ensuring seamless access to Loving Arms 2.0. Unaccompanied minors ages 13 through 17 will be housed. To access Loving Arms 2.0, youth must be aged 13 and 24.
J.O.Y Baltimore has been connecting homeless youth and those at risk of homelessness to essential resources and support until the greatly anticipated February 2025 launch of Loving Arms 2.0. Basic necessities such as meals; clothing; toiletries; life skills training in areas such as financial literacy and personal care; educational support, including GED programs and college preparation; job readiness training and employment connections; mental health resources and counseling; and comprehensive plans for achieving long-term stability will be provided.
Edward Opher, 26, recalls utilizing the original Loving Arms program in 2014 during a challenging time in his life.
Photo credit: Edward Opher
“At the time, I needed everything from shelter and safety to emotional and mental health support. I was around 14 or 15 years old. I also needed educational support, life skills training, and guidance to navigate the challenges I was facing. Programs like Loving Arms provided me with the foundation I needed to start rebuilding my life,” Opher said.
Walker further explained that Loving Arms 2.0 is prepared to house eight to 10 youths in a single location, but the exact number may vary.
“Both boys and girls are served through Loving Arms 2.0. We also accommodate non-binary or gender-diverse youth, ensuring all individuals feel welcome and supported. To maintain safety and comfort for all residents at Loving Arms 2.0, we provide separate sleeping areas for boys and girls, offer shared common spaces for group activities and meals, and have policies and training in place to ensure inclusivity and respect,” Walker also said.
Loving Arms and J.O.Y Baltimore rely on a mixture of individual donations, corporate partnerships, community fundraisers, and government and private grants, including a $150,000 grant from the Baltimore Children & Youth Fund, awarded to J.O.Y Baltimore in 2023. Walker further explained that the community plays a crucial role in helping homeless and displaced youth build brighter futures by donating time, money, in-kind donations, and other resources.
Ronda Allen-Bonner, a Baltimore, Maryland resident, has volunteered with J.O.Y Baltimore for eight years.
“I choose to support J.O.Y Baltimore because I see the incredible impact it has on vulnerable youth in our community,” said Allen-Bronner. “J.O.Y Baltimore is a lifeline for youth in crisis.”
Opher added insight to share with homeless youth who need resources.
“My advice [to youth] would be to reach out and take the first step toward getting the support you deserve. You are not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help. Programs like J.O.Y Baltimore exist to support you and provide the resources you need to succeed. Whether it’s shelter, education, or emotional support, there are people who care and want to help you build a brighter future. Reach out and take that first step. You deserve it.”
To obtain more information regarding the launch of Loving Arms 2.0, please contact Cindy Williams by calling 443-415-1174, or by emailing Gods2use@aol.com. Donation items for the shelter are currently being collected.Visit J.O.Y Baltimore’s website via www.joybaltimore.org.