Acres of Diamonds is a transitional Christian home established to serve single homeless women and their children by providing them with structure and nurture as they work to become productive members of their community. Located in Duvall, Washington, Acres of Diamonds (Acres) seeks to positively impact the quality of life for the women who are “diamonds in our own backyard.”

Many women who find their way to our doors either have lived paycheck to paycheck, or have been forced to endure undesirable, dangerous living conditions in order to keep a roof over their heads and those of their vulnerable children.

Read their stories and help our mission to support homeless women and their children.

King County homeless population (2004-2009)
• 97% are low income, many are teenaged parents
• 90% are survivors of domestic violence
• 50% are recovering from substance abuse
• 56% are people of color, often with language and cultural differences
• 15% consist of four or more family members

The Acres of Diamonds Program

Due to the economic impact of learned and/or persistent homelessness, as tax dollars pay for increasing government subsidies, we believe it is critical to provide more than just a home. If we can teach these women to be contributors, rather than receiving from society, it is our hope that not only these moms, but generations to come will gain a whole different approach to life.

Phase I (Family Style Home) is designed to equip women for independence by educating them in goal setting, budgeting, time management, job search, nutrition and meal preparation, fitness, parenting skills, and interpersonal relationships. Acres equips these women to access the resources that will meet their childcare, transportation, education, and employment needs. Acres emphasizes the importance of personal discipline in a structured environment in which adults, and especially children, will thrive. Individual program goals allow residents to take responsibility for their own progress — skills are developed which they can utilize for the rest of their lives.

Phase II (Apartment Building) is designed to provide residents who complete the Phase I program an opportunity to move into their own home, with discounted rent rates they can afford. In a home they can call their own, coupled with the stability and protection that Acres provides, these women can reinforce the responsible, structured living that was learned in the Phase I community.

PROGRAM LEARNING COMPONENTS

Emotional:
Boundaries taught and practiced
Effective communication
Anger management
Individual and group counseling

Physical:
Physical fitness
Healthy nutrition
Portion awareness

Spiritual:
Bible study
Forgiveness extended and received
Attendance at church of their choice

Financial:
Goal setting
Budgeting
Saving