Sideline Pass: Foundation in Focus

The Shawne Merriman Lights On Foundation

by Nkeshi Free

7th Annual Coat Drive

Shawn Merriman has been a polarizing figure both on and off the field. What’s never been questioned is his passion for the game. With that same passion, Merriman is committed to making a positive difference through his “Lights On” Foundation annual coat drive. This year’s annual coat drive was held Nov. 17, 2009 during the University of Maryland Terrapins Men’s Basketball game vs. Fairfield. In its seventh year, the foundation has collected more than 15, 000 coats benefitting the Community for Creative Non-Violence Shelter (CCNV).

Merriman, who as a youth spent time in homeless shelters, began his first coat drive while in high school and it became an annual event while he was a student at the University of Maryland. Every year at a Terrapins men’s basketball game, coats, hats, gloves, and scarves are collected. “The University of Maryland is proud to partner with the Lights On Foundation,” said Natasha Criss, University of Maryland assistant director of academic support. “This is a great avenue to provide to people in need, especially in these tough economic times,” she said.

The community has also responded to this annual event. Maria Jackson, of Pasadena, MD and Pary Harris, of Laurel, MD, brought two large bags to donate. “We’re Maryland Fans, and we want to support Shawne,” said Jackson. Added Harris, “We’re proud of Shawne, and as season tickets holders for both football and basketball, we do this every year. We save our things throughout the year, and for children’s items to donate, we buy hats and gloves.”

7th Annual Coat Drive

Merriman remains passionate about the coat drive. “I am 100 percent committed to making a difference in the lives of homeless families. During these tough economic times there are more people in need.” stated Merriman. Whatever his off-the-field troubles bring, he has vowed to continue to make a positive difference in the community.

For information about the CCNV visit http://users.erols.com/ccnv/, or for those looking to donate to a homeless shelter in their community, visit www.homelessshelterdirectory.org.