History

Our Story

While serving as pastor of Maranatha Baptist Church in Lansing, Michigan in the 1970’s Jay and Lois DeBoer began to research Christian homes where their son, David could ultimately live and receive the care he needed.  As they searched it was evident that for them there was not an appropriate place for him. Either they did not meet the needs of the whole person (physical, emotional, and spiritual) or they were not barrier free.  One night while talking with a good friend about their disappointment, the friend said, “Maybe the Lord wants us to do something about this.”  That conversation planted the seed out of which David’s House Ministries was born.

Jay and Lois established a non-profit corporation, formed a board of directors and began to move forward.  Although there were some promising developments in the Lansing/Grand Ledge area they did not bear fruit.  In the late 1970’s David’s House Ministries came under the umbrella of Honey Creek Christian Homes for a limited time in order to aid in getting the organization started.

Mr. & Mrs. Dan Vos, friends of Honey Creek, had a piece of property on Banner Drive SW that they generously donated to the ministry.  We then hired an architect and designed a building to meet the needs of not only David, but also 9 more residents.  The building was built and dedicated in 1987. 

David’s House became an autonomous organization in 1990.   Because David's House still had a waiting list of interested families, it was decided to look to expanding the ministry with another 12-bed facility.  The second home, slightly larger than the first was finished in 1993.  A three-bedroom apartment was added to house #1 in 1997 and an almost identical apartment was added to house #2 in 1999.  This decision helped us attract and keep quality house parents for the program.

Many individuals, businesses, and families have given of their time, talents, and finances over the years to bring the ministry to this point. Not only did they help build these 2 beautiful homes, they continue to help with the on-going expenses.  It takes many hours and staff to operate an effective program as we strive to meet the ever changing, and increasing needs of our residents – which brings us to another step of faith and growth!

Current Project

In 2005, a leadership gift was given for a new facility which would enable us to more effectively care for our residents as they age and experience the resultant loss of some of their physical abilities.  It has always been a hallmark of David's House to try, as much as it is possible, to adapt our program and facility as needed in order to meet the changing needs of our residents. We are building our 3rd home with this in mind.  We want to be ready to meet those needs with the very finest of care in a setting that also will nurture and encourage them in their Christian faith.

Future Vision

When the new facility is complete, future plans could include assisting individuals who do not need adult foster care and could benefit with a less restrictive setting, but need some support with meals, supervision, etc.  We have included a commercial kitchen and a multipurpose room in the plans of the 3rd home, so we would be able to provide some of those supports as they live independently in the community.