CULLMAN, Ala. – Since its founding in 1981, the Pilot Light Home has provided short- and long-term foster care placements for children through the Alabama Department of Human Resources.
Pilot Club of Cullman Board President Peggy Harris said the nonprofit home, which can accommodate up to six children, was built entirely through community donations and paid for upon completion. A house parent is employed to oversee daily operations, and additional funding comes from DHR stipends, local fundraising efforts and private donations.
Harris said many of the children placed at the home have experienced trauma, developmental disabilities or behavioral challenges. While living at the home, they attend school, participate in church and extracurricular activities and share in daily responsibilities in a structured, supportive environment.
Operating costs remain significant. Insurance expenses alone total nearly $23,000 annually, in addition to maintenance and transportation costs. Recently, the organization received funding from the Alabama Mountains, Rivers, & Valleys (AMRV) Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D) Council to install new flooring, completed by O.F. Richter and Sons.
The home is in need of community support. Local civic groups, businesses and volunteers regularly assist with fundraising, landscaping and maintenance projects, but Harris said any and all assistance is greatly appreciated. Ongoing needs include food, paper goods and personal care items.
Donations may be mailed to Pilot Light Incorporated, P.O. Box 221, Cullman, AL 35056.
“Our home has always belonged to the community,” Harris said. “We are grateful for the continued support that allows us to care for these children.”
