Linda's Story

My beloved mother Linda Ingram, a Harlem native, was a loving, compassionate, empathic, joyful human being.  She had a heart of gold and a spirit of giving. Her compassion for others inspired her to feed the homeless and the underprivileged, no matter their struggle. She did not care about the reason behind the struggle, whether it be to drug or alcohol addiction, or if someone was just in need of a meal – she would give her last. 

After losing her battle to leukemia in 2020, I was devastated. Her passing inspired me to honor her and keep her legacy alive, and from there SHINE-A-LIGHT21 was birthed.  SHINE-A-LIGHT21 focuses on feeding and giving back to the homeless right in the heart of Harlem and throughout NYC.  On the 21 st of every month, SHINE-A-LIGHT21 feeds 21 individuals. Why 21… well, my beloved mother was born on February 21.   

Our first outing was on 2/21/21 in the very heart of Harlem on 125th street between Lexington and Park Avenues. This day not only put smiles on many faces but most importantly it gave them hope in their time of need. SHINE-A-LIGHT21 started partnering up with The NYC Bowery Mission when the weather permits us from being outdoors. We also make annual donations to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in memory of my beloved mother.

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If you reside in New York, you are constantly reminded of how bad the homeless population is. The poverty levels have reached an all-time high since the pandemic. SHINE-A-LIGHT21 may not be able to eliminate the problem, but we surely can help as many people as possible one month at a time!