In the 1970s, few would have thought a run-down liquor store could be turned into a ministry that strived to serve the poor, at-risk, and homeless community. However, Carl Warnock and Jim Welch had a vision and knew the need was large.
Carl and Jim stood in front of that storefront and prayed for the Lord’s will and direction over the project. In 1977, the former liquor store opened as the Lakeland Lighthouse Rescue Mission. Dedicated to reaching the least, last, and lost for Jesus Christ, the ministry grew and later became Lighthouse Ministries, Inc.

In 1986, the Lighthouse Ministries HOPE Outreach began, which serves those in our community, not just those in our program. We also completed our Men's Program building. Nine years later, our first thrift store was donated to the ministry (the Lakeland facility), which allowed anyone in the community to purchase gently used items inexpensively. It also house our HOPE Outreach ministry.

Our shelter for women and children was completed in 2001. Since then, it has gone on to serve approximately 285 women and 437 children. Our men's ministry has also served in excess of 2 million meals since its inception, with well over 800,000 beds being filled.*

We have been blessed to have Steve Turbeville serving as our Executive Director since 2002, the same year our Community Preschool opened. Under his guidance, Lighthouse has seen ministries begin and grow, including the Adult Learning Center, the Hydroponic Garden, our Lighthouse Ministries Hope & Help Team, our Distribution Center, and several thrift shoppes all over the community.

We are encouraged as we begin new endeavors daily, including the Brandon-area thrift shoppe, which is set to open in August 2009!

*Figures as of June 2009