Transforming lives: Inside Freedom House's newly remodeled women's residence

Freedom House, a non-profit branch of Mission Teens located in Holcomb has completed a long awaited expansion.

The Christ centered, discipleship program for people 18 years or older, who struggle from drug, alcohol or emotional problems, will now increase their women's residence program to 28 beds.

“It's been a five year plan to move the girls over here,” informed Executive Director Susan Smith. “We now have a men's and women's house.”

The building previously housed the Open Door Church Youth Building. It eventually became used primarily for office space, making copies, storage, etc.

“It wasn't being utilized in the most efficient way,” said Smith. “We made an agreement to build on to their current church building.

Smith continued, “We took on that financial responsibility and the labor. They in turn let us have this building.”

The newly remodeled building comes complete with living and bedroom space for staff and residents, along with laundry facilities, and a craft room.

Smith shared, “Everything is brand new, every dresser, every pillow, every sheet, every mattress, and every bed.”

Scripture covers the walls in framed pieces, along with pages from a 200 year old bible.

Smith stated she knew early on the program would be successful in the Bootheel.

“Soon after we opened we knew the Lord was going to do something big here,” she said.

The new Women's Residence house 18 girls and ten staff.

Smith stressed beds are available and the program is completely free.

“You just have to be ready,” Smith stated.

Freedom House is also preparing for their annual graduation banquet.

“Our graduation banquet is March 15,” Smith informed. “This year we have 14 graduates and six staff graduates.”

“We have visitors coming from Oregon, Florida, Arkansas, Indiana, Illinois, New Jersey, Kentucky, and Michigan,” she added. It's a big deal, a big celebration.”

Smith's husband, Gary, has now been promoted to the position of Executive Director at Mission Teens.

“He is over ten of the centers across the United States,” said Smith. “We have great staff here so he's able to travel to the other locations.”

In addition to the expansion, they have built a lean-to, a chicken coop, and a giant greenhouse.

“All of those are designed to teach the residents new skills,” Smith explained. “Everybody had a part, whether it was just cleaning or making the beds, or building a door, staining or painting.”

“It's been a great experience,” said Smith.

Freedom House offers a worship service every night and has a variety of pastors that come to present.

“We're booked through July,” stated Smith. “People want to be a part of this. It's very cool.”

Whitney Burnette, a former resident and current staff member, had high praise for the program.

“When you come on the property it's just a peace that's overwhelming,” she said.

Burnette continued, “When I graduated I had an opportunity to stay on as staff, and there was no doubt in my mind that I was going to stay.”

“It has been the best experience,” she concluded. “It's been a really big blessing.”

Freedom House is located at 27791 State Highway 25, in Holcomb.

To inquire about bed availability, donating information, or questions about the program contact 573-371-2020.

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