One More Child and Women of Compassion Foundation host annual “Redeemed” Luncheon
One More Child and the Women of Compassion Foundation hosted their annual “Redeemed” luncheon on March 6 at the Bonnet Springs Park Event Center. The event served not only as a time of fellowship and inspiration, but also as a powerful reminder of the ongoing work being done to support single mothers and families in need across Lakeland.
The afternoon began outdoors in the event center pavilion, where attendees were welcomed into a vibrant marketplace featuring local small businesses and boutiques. Vendors lined the walkways and indoor spaces, offering a variety of goods and fostering a sense of community support. Guests enjoyed a mobile coffee cart and pastries and participated in a hands-on “fill-a-bag” initiative, assembling self-care packages for single mothers in the area. The activity reflected the luncheon’s deeper purpose; a meeting of the practical and emotional needs of women navigating single parenthood.
The program transitioned into a time of worship led by singer Shantal Taylor, worship leader for Church for the ONE in Lakeland, F.L. Her performance of “Amazing Grace” and other notable Christian worship songs set a reflective tone for the afternoon. Worship was followed by a time of devotion led by Christi Haag, Advocate and Global Speaker for One More Child. Haag’s devotion emphasized faith and resilience, as well as the importance of community support systems.
The luncheon’s keynote address was delivered by Jackie Green, a member of the family behind Hobby Lobby, co-founder of the Museum of the Bible, and founder of Women of Legacy. Green shared insights on faith-driven leadership and the importance of empowering women through purpose and service.
“I try to do better about that now, to encourage others and inspire them to keep doing what they’re doing, to just keep being a light. We have the opportunity to give the most powerful gift that we can to those around us,” expressed Green.
At the core of the luncheon was a focus on the impactful collaboration between One More Child and the Women of Compassion Foundation. Together, these organziations address the unique challenges faced by single mothers in Lakeland and across the country.
The One More Child Single Moms division provides comprehensive support designed to create long-term stability. Their efforts include building homes for single mothers and their children, offering shelter but also a foundation for a secure future. Mothers enrolled in the program also receive monthly financial assistance to use toward groceries, appointments, and more to help ease the burden of living costs.
Beyond the material support, the partnership emphasizes the empowerment for women. The program is structured to equip women with tools and strength to thrive, rather than just survive.
The luncheon served as both a celebration of the work of the organizations but also a call to action. By bringing together community members, advocates and leaders, the event highlighted the power of community.
As Lakeland’s population continues to grow, initiatives like those led by One More Child and the Women of Compassion Foundation demonstrate how collaboration can address the critical needs of those living next door. Their work with single mothers stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when compassion is paired with purposeful action.
For more information on how to get involved or donate to One More Child, please visit their website.
Volunteerism in LKLD 