Blog Post

The Heart of Sponsored by GRACE

            Sponsored by GRACE’s goal is to lift local children out of the cyclical system of poverty and oppression. We exist to help these children grow and develop leadership through the love and compassion of Christ. SBG strives to INVEST, GROW, and EMPOWER these children as they are our hope for a future of great leaders. Empowering just one child can empower an entire family!

  Currently, our home base is in the 32209 area of Jacksonville at the Vista Landing Apartments. This zip code area of Jacksonville is known to be the murder capital of the city. The crime rate of 32209 is almost at 85% whereas the average for the US is 31.1% This apartment complex is overpopulated with over 1,000 people living in only 200 units. There is little to no furniture and some of the children have resulted to sleeping on the floor or in closets. They are hungry and malnourished because they live in a “food desert” with no grocery stores near. Many of these children do not attend school because their family simply cannot afford school uniforms. 68.7% of the children who do attend school are often getting in trouble and receiving disciplinary referrals due to behavior caused by their home environment. SBG Executive Director Ron Armstrong says, “the streets are always hiring,” so some of the kids can be seen handling weapons and being recruited into gangs.

This is no way for anyone to live, but we want to help and make a difference within this community. Child Sponsorship is offered through SBG. Each sponsorship costs $56 a month and provides school uniforms, activities outside of the apartment complex, and Empowerment classes. Each sponsored child must “earn” their sponsorship by attending school and the empowerment classes. The empowerment classes are a great way for the children to learn important life skills changing oil in a car, using power tools, sewing, etc. A hot meal is also included and a Bible study to strengthen their relationship with Christ. These classes are a safe space and environment where these young leaders can rise up and grow through their own empowerment and strength of Christ.

We plan on being able to have more children sponsored within the upcoming year. All of this is possible through our child sponsorships and donations from compassionate local donors. As our organization grows, so does our relationship and love for the people of 32209. Through Christ we can accomplish anything and empower this community.