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Mission Moments: Anchor House

By: Steve Negley

Posted: November 18, 2020

Category: Daily Devotional

Daily Devotion Focusing on the Missions Supported by First Pres

14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it, 15 and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is inspired by God and is[b] useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.

II Timothy 3:14-17

Anchor House is a Christian ministry located in Auburndale, committed to reaching boys in crisis. Founded in 1974 to assist families who are unable to take care of their son and are then referred by the state or private counselors, Anchor House provides a group home to boys 11-17. They focus on education and life skills. They have transitional houses for older boys and girls that otherwise would be taken to a shelter on their 18th birthday. Transitional housing is available for as long as they are in school, allowing them to stay until they finish college even if they are older than 21.

Anchor House gets placements from all over the state but gives preferences for those from Polk County. Approximately 30% of their funding comes from the State, so they rely heavily on local resources. The Deacons at First Presbyterian Church have directed a portion of their local benevolence dollars to Anchor House annually for over three decades. During the start of Covid-19 Anchor House had to bring their education in house and hired extra staff. They also added their own therapist onsite starting in July. Their most pressing needs at this time are canned food (items similar to stocking up for a hurricane), paper products, etc. They can also use mentors and tutors. Anchor House is located at 3000 K-Ville Ave, Auburndale, FL 33823 863/665-1916

Prayer

Wonderful God, as Paul mentored the young pastor, Timothy, we pray for those who also help young men and women move through the teens and toward maturity. Bless the young people who call Anchor House home, and help them to know of Your love through the love of disciples of Jesus. Amen.