ANNUAL REPORT
SERVING CHILDREN.
STRENGTHENING FAMILIES.
Board of Trustees
Jim Meyerhoff, Chair – Houston
Beth Black – Houston
Shantera Chatman – Houston
GRACEWOOD
Robbie Fielder – Houston
Robyn Joyce – Houston
Barbara Kirk – Houston
Gregory McAuley – Pearland
David Miller – Houston
Kelly Raley – Houston
Todd Roberson – Georgetown
Mary Stone – Houston
Wayne Wooden – Spring
VINICIA
“VI” WHITE President, Gracewood
Houston
Busy schedules to maintain, cars breaking down unexpectedly, financial instability, homelessness, and so much more. These are just a few of the challenges facing the 22 mothers and 52 children who called Gracewood home this year. However, through hard work and dedication, several Gracewood mothers completed education programs, several received promotions within their companies and others are currently pursuing education goals of completing associate and bachelor’s degrees.
Witnessing the accomplishments of our families firsthand, I am reminded that it is God, who has promised to be with each of us, who makes such things possible. Isaiah 41:10 assures us that God will strengthen us and uphold us with His righteous hand- no matter what is going on around us. I see this at play in the lives of Gracewood families as well as within our entire ministry. God is with us!
Gracewood children continue to thrive in academic and extracurricular pursuits including sports, FFA, and Student Council. Additionally, two graduating high school seniors have been accepted into four-year colleges! This summer, we also sent seven first-time campers to a week of Christian summer camp at Camp Cho-Yeh in Livingston, Texas. We have celebrated personal and professional victories in the lives of both mothers and children as we continue to make a multigenerational impact on the lives of these families.
This year, Gracewood increased our programming with the launch of our Family Relief Program and the relaunch of our Volunteer Program, but the highlight of 2024 has been the grand opening of our Recreation Center. This newly repurposed space is a safe haven for children and teens on our campus. We host daily activities that range from Bible study to slime making to sports tournaments.
Every ounce of good that happens on our Gracewood campus is a direct result of the generosity of our supporters and friends. Your commitment to providing Home, Hope, and Healing to single mothers and children reflects Christ’s love and His faithfulness. Thank you! As we move into another year of serving families in crisis, we cannot predict which families God will send our way. We cannot determine every variable, nor can we anticipate every outcome. But we find hope and excitement in knowing that God will be right here with us, just as He has promised!
stories & highlights
hope
After a tough year of facing unforeseen challenges and financial instability, Nicole had to make the difficult decision to move out of her home with her children. They moved in with a friend and then later her daughter’s grandmother. Both living situations proved to be difficult. Thankfully, she was able to find a placement at Gracewood. Nicole credits Gracewood with helping to relieve pressure while allowing her the opportunity to work on her goals and build security through learning about smart budgeting. After decreasing her debt and building her credit score, Nicole shares that “these victories make me feel responsible and gives me the hope that I can regain stability after loss.” Nicole feels her time at Gracewood has boosted her confidence, helping her set new goals. She’s working toward homeownership and starting a nonprofit, while balancing a full-time job. Nicole is extremely grateful for the stability that she can provide for her children. She says, “I’m not stressed so my kids see me working and motivated and in turn, they are not worried. This experience has brought us closer as a family and we continue to uplift each other.”
Gracewood proudly opened its Recreation Center, offering a new and exciting space for campus clients. Traditionally, the focus has been on supporting mothers by empowering them to heal and improve their lives so they can better support their children. Now, through the Recreation Center, Gracewood provides valuable services for both moms and kids, creating a space where families can grow together. The center offers a weekly schedule with activities for all family members. For the children, classes such as jewelry making, STEM activities, tutoring, storytelling, and Bible study are offered. The youth enjoy a dedicated space for socializing, board games, and exciting challenges in the Gaming Room. Moms can connect with one another, access the library and computer lab, or enjoy a workout in the fitness room. The Recreation Center has become a vibrant community hub on campus, providing a place for learning, relaxation, and fellowship. It truly offers something for everyone, and goes a long way towards making Gracewood feel like home.
healing home
Kristen relocated to Texas seeking a new beginning but struggled to find employment, leading her and her son to seek shelter. Facing past trauma and financial struggles, Kristen sought healing, financial stability, and secure employment. Upon entering Gracewood, she worked part-time at a day spa but faced hostility from the owner. Despite her fears, Kristen chose to trust in her faith and soon secured a better-paying job with full-time hours and a significant pay increase. She credits Gracewood’s support for her newfound self-esteem and stability. Engaging with the program, Kristen has amassed significant savings and plans to pursue a business certification to open her own holistic health business. She values Gracewood as a place of healing, community, and safety, strengthening her bond with her son. Kristen views Gracewood as a necessary step towards achieving her goals, providing the time, support, and healing she needs for a fresh start. She is committed to her future beyond Gracewood, aiming to realize her long-term goal of entrepreneurship through education and planning.
23 38
mothers in residence
52
328
7
families, including 87 children served in After Care
793
hours of individual and family counseling provided
children in residence decisions for Christ and baptisms
2,001
hours provided by 1,377 volunteers
20
hours of family enrichment offered in the Recreation Center since September 2024
mothers collectively saved over $111,000
Unaudited Year Ending December 31, 2024 **
Unaudited Year Ending December 31,
Children At Heart Ministries
1301 N Mays St
Round Rock, TX 78664
512-255-3668
www.cahm.org
