What Do We Do at Collins Family Ministries?
People often ask what we do at Collins Family Ministries. Our mission is to make sure the most vulnerable and neglected children in Oconee County feel loved, safe, and cared for, learn about Christ’s love, and grow into adulthood in a forever family.
The Reality Facing Children in Oconee County
There are 15,374 children under 18 in Oconee County, South Carolina. Out of 46 counties in the state, Oconee County’s numbers double those of the state average. Physical abuse, in Oconee, happens at a rate of 3.32 per 1,000 children, while the state average is 1.63. While physical neglect in our county is 10.8 per 1,000, the State average is 5.08 per 1,000. When I first saw these statistics provided by the Children’s Trust of South Carolina, I was in shock.
More Than Statistics
These troubling numbers have many causes, like family history of abuse, financial struggles, and not enough mental health support. At Collins Family Ministries, we see these challenges every day. To me, these numbers are not just statistics; they are children and families I know and care about.
How You Can Make a Difference
So, what can we do? I encourage everyone in Oconee County to volunteer with groups that support children. Besides Collins Family Ministries, Fostering Faithfully helps foster families and kids who are in foster care. Additionally, you can also become a Guardian ad Litem and advocate for a child’s best interests. If we all do our part, we can make a significant impact in the lives of the children who call Oconee County home.
Meeting Immediate Needs
As someone who values faith, I ask you to pray for and support ministries that help these children. When a child comes to us, we give them what they need right away. For example, our welcome basket includes pajamas, a new outfit, Crocs, and favorite snacks. This gift costs about $150 per child. Your support lets us greet children with kindness and provide a few of the things they need. For a tour of Collins or to support the work we do, visit collinsfamilyministries.org.
Data used is from the Children’s Trust of South Carolina.