Welcome Home Neighbor Temporarily Moves Into Masonic Lodge

A Hyattsville group is making a temporary home in the historic Masonic lodge.

Located at 4207 Gallatin St., the building is being restored by owner and Hyattsville resident Kayleigh Kulp, who plans to convert the interior into a mixed-use development.

In the meantime, she’s lending the space to Welcome Home Neighbor to temporarily store the household goods it provides to families in need.

“It was really important for me to work with Welcome Home Neighbor in getting this space because it really helps them take the organization to the next level — making sure families have a safe and comfortable place to call home,” Kulp said in a social media video about the move.

Constructed in 1893 by the Mount Hermon Lodge No. 179, the Romanesque Revival building served as a hub for community events ranging from banquets to political rallies over the years.

Welcome Home Neighbor was founded by Hyattsville residents Jamila Larson and Mark Betancourt in 2022 to assist families relocating to the area with household essentials. It recently celebrated helping its 100th family.

Welcome Home Neighbor is currently looking for a permanent storage space, monthly donors, gently used furniture and household goods and volunteers. If you can help, contact it at neighborwelcomehome@gmail.com.

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