Butch Burns

Perhaps like you, over the years we have had limited dollars to give to charities outside our church. One of the ministries I am committed to is the Tennessee Baptist Childrens' Homes. I wanted to share a little about why this is so, in hopes that you will prayerfully consider joining me as I seek to raise funds for TBCH through their annual Run for Kids on May 19.

I have known of the great work of the TBCH since high school when my mom and dad would bring one of the students to stay with us over a weekend. I have also had the opportunity to serve on the Board of Trustees, and most recently on an advisory committee of the Board. 

Through these experiences two things stand out. First, the critical role the TBCH plays in providing order and the hope of Christ to the lives of children who, more often than not, come from traumatic home situations. Secondly, I have observed how TBCH strives to make every dollar stretch as far as possible. For example they are in the process of closing two of their facilities without reducing the 94 beds available at their three remaining locations at a savings of $1 million annually.

Not familiar with TBCH? Here are just a few facts:

• It has been ministering to children for 127 years.
• Approximately one-half of its budget comes from Tennessee Southern Baptist churches; the other half comes from corporations, individuals and events such as this.
• It has neither sought nor received any government funds.
• The goal is that students will not be under TBCH's care long-term, but hopefully reunite them with their family once the issues that brought them to us are resolved.
• Between the 94 beds in our three residential facilites and the 60 foster homes across the state, TBCH ministers to 200 children a year.

I would appreciate it if you would join me in an effort to raise funds for this great institution. You can do so by clicking on the "Donate" button on this page. No gift is too large or small. What can your gift provide? Here are a few examples:

• $1,300 will feed a child for one year;
• $500 will provide for five specialized trauma-based counseling sessions;
• $150 will provide a one-time driver's education class;
• $135 will provide a child with haircuts for the year;
• $50 will provide clothing for the child; and
• $25 will feed a child for a week.

My goal is to raise $2,500 from my friends like you for the children at the Brentwood facility. Will you help me? Thanks!