A native New Orleanian, Kenitha began volunteering with Lantern Light in 2009 after meeting Sr. Enid Storey at St. Peter Claver Church. She volunteered with Lantern Light while working on her Master’s Degree in Social Work after leaving a ten year career in Advertising and Public Relations. Several years later, she increased her volunteer time with the organization and was asked to join the staff as a Social Worker in 2013. Kenitha’s responsibilities have included obtaining ID’s and birth certificates, assisting with the food bank program and coordinating the notary services. She also resumed the food stamp application service after Second Harvest discontinued the program at the Rebuild Center, added services to apply for Medicaid, Child Care and Permanent Residency Cards, as well as expanding the employment assistance program. Kenitha is truly grateful for the opportunity to continue what she believes is a remarkable ministry for the homeless and less fortunate of New Orleans and knows that her work with Lantern Light has enabled her to fulfill her true calling, which is to serve.

Keon Jackson is a dedicated social worker at Lantern Light who first served as an intern for two semesters. Following her internship, Ms. Jackson was asked to step into the social worker role several months later after the previous social worker departed to pursue a career advancement opportunity, and she has continued her commitment to serving those in need. A native of New Orleans and a graduate of Southern University at New Orleans, Ms. Jackson is also a proud mother of two boys. She spent much of her professional career in the restaurant industry as a manager, where she built strong relationships and consistently provided support and resources to those around her. After the passing of her mother, Ms. Jackson felt called to return to school and pursue social work, aligning her career with her passion for helping others. During the early stages of her journey at Lantern Light, she and her children experienced a brief period of homelessness. Through resilience, determination, and the support of her family, she overcame those challenges. Ms. Jackson believes that while some individuals can navigate difficult circumstances on their own, many need support, and she is committed to being a compassionate source of guidance, advocacy, and hope for those she serves.

Keith Smith joined Lantern Light in 2026 as our Kitchen Coordinator, bringing decades of culinary expertise and a passion for serving others. A native of New Orleans, Keith is married with three children and enjoys being an active part of his community. With over 40 years of cooking experience and more than 5 years in kitchen management, Keith has honed his skills in high-volume environments, supervising operations, maintaining food safety standards, and ensuring efficient, well-run kitchens. Prior to joining Lantern Light, he served as Head Cook at The Salvation Army – Intermountain Division, where he managed daily kitchen operations, developed menus, coordinated meal service with staff and volunteers, and maintained accurate inventory and organization of food donations. Keith loves working with people and giving back, and he finds joy in sharing his craft and culinary talent to create nourishing meals for the community.

A native New Orleanian, Donna joined Lantern Light Ministry in 2009 after meeting Sr. Enid at St. Peter Claver Church. She worked for the city of New Orleans for 35 ½ years in Safety and Permits and the last 15 years were spent in the Electrical Department. She retired in May 2014 and decided she would extend her hours with the ministry due to the retirement of Sr. Anna. As a result, Donna became the Volunteer Coordinator of the agency’s Food pantry and contact for the Second Harvest Food Bank program. She always finds a way to give her time and talents in other areas as well. Donna states, “My experience at Lantern Light has helped me more than the guests. When I leave I often reflect on how truly grateful I am for my life. I am thankful that I have an opportunity to bless others.”

A native New Orleanian and parishioner of our partner St. Joseph Catholic Church, Learlee joined Lantern Light Ministry in 2013 as a volunteer with our Food Program and Mail service. She worked for the Criminal District Court for 37 years, where she was a supervisor of the Magistrate Section, which included the Bond Department, General Docket Section, and Pre-Trial Court. She retired in 2010 and after lending her time at a local school, she decided she would volunteer at the Ministry that she would see each time she went to church. When our former Mail Coordinator, Brother Charles Avendano, was transferred to California, Lear happily accepted an opportunity to continue the program that has been so vital to many of our guests. She maintained the mail for two years until she decided she needed a change of pace. However, when her replacement advanced to another profession, Lear quickly answered the call to serve again. Lear shares, “Although it can be overwhelming to keep up with the hundreds of guests that receive their mail with Lantern Light, I understand the importance of it and enjoy it immensely.”

A native New Orleanian, Gaylyn started volunteering at Lantern Light with our Food Program after meeting Sr. Anna Raimon, our former Food Bank Coordinator in 2012. Gaylyn worked in the government arena For 45 years in various agencies including the Small Business Administration, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the Federal Courts. Her volunteer efforts began in the kitchen where she washed dishes before and after we served lunch. When Sr. Dolores Cooney, the coordinator of our Art program transitioned back to England around 2014, Gaylyn along with two other volunteers graciously stepped in to keep the program going. Since that time, Gaylyn has been a mainstay with our organization and continues to help our guests share their love for art every week. Through funds provided by the Ministry, Galyln purchases various craft items such as coloring books, paints, drawing paper, and seasonal items that guests can use to create something that is an expression of what they might be feeling at that particular time. Gaylyn says that she is inspired by the attitude of our guests. “Some are struggling with mental issues or addictions, but for the most part, they are pleasant and grateful for the time they spend creating at the art tables. There is camaraderie among them, a sense of family at Lantern Light, a place where they can gather and feel safe. I am honored to be a volunteer at Lantern Light. I always leave there happier than when I arrived.”