Pastor Carlos Duran of Grace Redemption Community Church is expanding a branch of his ministry, a homeless shelter known as Redemption Home, according to information provided by the organization.
Located on 15 acres, the shelter currently houses up to 30 people, including men, women and children. Duran said the idea for Redemption Home began in his own house, where he opened his doors to people in need.
“In one month, I had eleven people living with me,” Duran said. “We didn’t have funds for a property.”
Duran said what followed he considers divine intervention.
“I met this man one time, who said God had put it in his heart to help us with a property,” he said.
That man, Pastor Ward Dow, along with his wife, Shalome Dow, took out a loan to purchase the 15-acre property in Lakehills.
“I was nervous at first,” Duran said. “I feel bad that they have the burden of the loan on them.”
Duran said he and the Dows shared the same vision for serving the homeless community, a calling he said has long guided his work.
“I used to go out and feed the homeless, but I felt it wasn’t enough,” Duran said. “I would work in construction to help fund that portion of my ministry.”
Duran is now using his construction skills to expand the men’s dormitory, a project that would allow Redemption Home to house up to 80 people.
“I’m just being obedient to God,” he said. “Redemption Home is a way to allow God to rewrite these people’s stories.”
The expansion has required personal sacrifice. Duran currently lives in a 238-square-foot room at the shelter with his family. Donald Ray, a resident of Redemption Home, said he has witnessed Duran’s commitment firsthand.
“He opens the doors for anyone,” Ray said. “All we have to do is follow the rules and regulations and follow Jesus. You don’t need any money to get in.”
Ray said he struggled with drug addiction and mental illness before joining the Redemption Home community.
Duran said the shelter addresses more than drug and alcohol addiction. With a licensed Christian counselor on staff, Redemption Home also supports individuals dealing with internet addiction and pornography addiction.
“And every Sunday, we have everyone come to service,” Duran said.
As construction continues, Duran said the ministry is seeking donations to help offset financial strain. Donations can be made at redemptionhome. org by selecting the “donate here” option. He also invites members of the public to tour the property to see how funds are being used.
Redemption Home is located at 7789 FM 1283 in Lakehills. Duran said volunteers are also welcome to assist with the ongoing expansion.
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