As the Immanuel House transitions to its own 501c3 in the coming weeks I reflect on how we started this ministry 5 years ago. We knew the Lord was moving in our hearts to do something, but we had no idea how it could happen. We had a vision, we had a home available for us to use, but no money. We prayed fervently. The Lord started moving in the hearts of his people to give generously and to donate their money, time and talents to help renovate a very old house. Since we opened our doors we have seen over 500 children come through our doors. This ministry has grown tremendously as we have been a first stop for children transitioning from their home into foster care. We have shared Jesus with children, we have provided warm beds, we have cooked hot meals, we have provided new clothing, we have provided essential toiletries and most of all we have provided a calm, welcoming, loving home for children awaiting foster placement. They are more than just a statistic, they are each unique and have individual traits and characteristics that the Lord instilled in them. They come with no hope, but we share Jeremiah 29:11 and it is always our mission that every child leave knowing there is Hope in Jesus and He has a Plan and Purpose for their life.

​

5 years later and we find ourselves once again seeking the Lord for provision and guidance. He has called us to continue this ministry and be able to provide more services to more children. What does that look like? The vision the Lord has given is to move into an expanded home to allow for more bed space so we can assist more children. Part of that vision is to provide options for children aging out of the system. To offer discipleship, mentorship, job skills training and most importantly make a difference in the lives of every child in foster care in our community.

​

How does that happen? We pray. We seek the Lord and His will for this ministry. We depend solely on Him for our provision to move in the hearts of His people to give generously in big ways. Will you pray with us for this next step in our journey for Immanuel House? For this ministry to continue and grow we need financial partners, we need a larger home or space, we need volunteers, we need partners with means and capabilities that we do not have to come along side of us and further the vision and calling the Lord has called us to in helping children in foster care that have no place to go. The need is great. We have just shy of 8000 children in Tennessee in state foster care and less than 5000 foster homes. Our Immanuel House serves all of our surrounding counties when there is a need for housing for a child coming into care waiting for placement.

 

The Lord has given us a vision to share and act upon, but He is going to move in His people to help make this happen. He gets all the glory. Will you partner with us? We will be posting some of our changes in the coming weeks. Tax deductible donations can be made here on our website or mailed. Thank you for your support and prayers over the past 5 years. God has truly blessed us greatly and we are so excited to see what He is going to do next!

​

I would love to come and share with your church or community group about our Immanuel House ministry. You can text me at 865-254-5752 or email TeresaWood@ImmanuelHouseLC.com. 

​

Together we ARE making a difference in the lives of God's children!

​

Teresa Wood