In 1923, Dr. R. Thomsen, minister for what is today's First Presbyterian Church, and some friends, including civic leaders Guy C. Saunders and Allen Early, Sr., were meeting for coffee when they saw three children standing outside, crying. The children were orphaned, hungry and in need of clean clothing. At this critical point, these men chose to act: to feed and clothe the children and find them proper care. As a result of the events on that fateful day, Amarillo Children's Home officially opened in March, 1924.
Today, Amarillo Children's Home primarily serves children in the foster care and juvenile systems. As with all kids, these young people spill over what has been poured into them. Hurt, anger, lies, rejection, insecurity and abuse have been their reality. The ugliness they believe to be truth shapes their world-view and self-view and results in a fierce spirit of self-preservation. Mere survival has required every ounce of their energy, and they have no idea how to live any other way.
Immediately upon their arrival, it is our challenge to begin instilling in each child safety, home, family security and value. Our ultimate goal is to restore each child's God-given identity – to help them become all that they were created to be. As truth overcomes lies, children begin to realize their own worth and, in turn, the value of others. Over time, out of the overflow of their hearts, they are able to become a blessing to the world around them.
From our very inception in 1924, Amarillo Children's Home has been a product of the Panhandle community. Throughout our 90+ years, this community has poured out time, heart, gifts and funds. We have taken those blessings and battled for our children – providing them with so much more than food and shelter. The love, structure, sense of belonging and training the kids receive here allow them to give back to their community as respectful students and athletes, dedicated moms and dads, diligent workers and honest businessmen and women.
Each of our homes utilizes proven age-appropriate methods to teach the kids skills necessary for a successful life. From table manners, to job interviewing, to building healthy relationships, these programs support our mission. However, the heart of each home and the campus is the consistent love and compassion provided by our Family Teaching couples, the Assistants and every other adult on campus as they seek to bring up these children – challenging them and providing them with a variety of opportunities so that they might grown into well-rounded, Christ-centered individuals.
