We are often asked, “How do children end up at the Ranch?” or “Where do these children come from?” There are a variety of answers to that question. While not all of the children at the Ranch fit into these categories, the following are samples of scenarios that we have seen over the years to help give you an understanding of the children we serve.
This scenario is based on the actual occasion that God used to prompt Jim Wood to begin praying for a home for unwanted children. Jim was only 15 when he met this child who was placed in a juvenile evaluation center with other children who had committed serious crimes. Jim wanted to provide a safe place for children who were unwanted. Since, God miraculously opened the door for the Ranch to be formed, and children with a similar story have been calling Wears Valley Ranch home for more than 30 years. Learn more at The Story of Two Boys.
Alone, she carried a secret that no one should have to deal with – especially a child. As a very young girl, someone that she should have been able to trust took advantage of her while no one was looking. But, God saw and provided a safe place.
Not all children who come to the Ranch have experienced this level of abuse. Yet, far too many sadly have this as part of their past. In the safety of the Ranch, children often open up for the first time to begin the healing process of forgiveness and get help with dealing with what has happened to them. Many learn for the first time that regardless of what they have experienced, God loved them so much that he sent Jesus to be their healer.
Last week, he was sleeping with his mom in the car. Mom was concerned about going to a shelter because he was too old to join her, yet too young to be alone with strange grown men.
Homelessness is a serious problem for individuals, but it poses more stress for those with children. Wears Valley Ranch offers a safe alternative for children while parents get back on their feet. This mom will not lose custody of her child, and she can be at peace knowing he is loved and well cared for.
She is confused. She doesn’t understand why mommy sleeps so much. Even when mommy is driving her to school, she doesn’t seem very awake. Instead of mommy preparing meals, she often is the one who cooks meals – that is – when there is food to cook. She would love to have mommy help her with schoolwork. She is embarrassed that she is falling so far behind.
Substance misuse is one of the main factors that bring many children to the Ranch. For parents who have the ability to recognize they need help, the Ranch offers a safe place for their children while they seek recovery. As able, parents can enjoy scheduled visits from their child. After parents are in a better position to care for their child, there is no battle with children’s services to regain custody as the parent maintains custody during their recovery.
She loves Grandma, and Grandma loves her. After her mom left her, Grandma had been her rock. Things were going well, and she was beginning to feel secure with Grandma. Then came the diagnosis.
More than ever, relatives are raising children of family members. This is especially the case with grandparents. For some, this works out beautifully for children involved. But sometimes this can become an impossible situation. Many children in these situations have found a safe place to live and grow at Wears Valley Ranch. The family member keeps legal custody of the child they love, and they have regularly scheduled visits with the children. However, the Ranch takes the main responsibility of caring for the child and making sure they stay healthy, avoid online dangers, and keep up academically.
He was frightened. Imagine being awakened by bullets whizzing by your head as a drive by shooter unloads a weapon on your apartment. After the noise is silenced, imagine finding out your mother has been hit.
Children who come from inner city areas find the Ranch a bit of a culture shock. However, they appreciate the chance to live, play and go to school without the constant threat of violence. The quote with this image is an actual quote from a recent graduate.
Since 1992, Wears Valley Ranch has been providing holistic care for children who come from desperate situations like these. But the greatest hope is not found in providing for their physical needs. Jesus said, “Son, your sins are forgiven,” before the man was told “Get up and walk.” (Matthew 9)
We all come from broken situations. Some seem more tragic than others, but we all have been injured at some point by someone. Jesus also asked a cripple man, “Do you want to be healed?” (John 5) Being healed of our sin sickness is more powerful and lasting that any physical healing. That healing is available to all who repent and call upon the name of the Lord. Just like the hurting children who come to the Ranch, Jesus is there for you.
If you have helped us through prayer, volunteering, or finances, thank you. If you believe that God would have you provide for children from a variety of difficult situations, please give today.
Whatever you did for the least of these…..you did for me.
Matthew 25:40
