Walking through the front lobby of the Juvenile Justice Center (JJC), a juvenile waved and said hi to me. She asked, “Do you remember me?.” I needed her help with her name, but then memories filled my mind. I hadn’t seen her since February, when she was released. I asked her what was helping her to maintain her freedom. Her list included her new (foster) family’s support. She remembered that prayer helped while she was detained too. Mike, our other Chaplain at the JJC, and I had multiple opportunities to pray with her while she was at the JJC.

​“Are you going to church now, too?,” I asked her. Her foster grandmother spoke up and said that they do have a church, but they haven’t been able to go recently due to the continuous occurrence of personal matters. I then turned to the teen girl for a few words of encouragement. I mentioned to her that it sounded like she was on a path of personal success and headed towards a time of spiritual growth. When I asked if she knew about Psalm119:105, “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path,” she answered, “No ma’am, I don’t really know the Bible. I don’t have one.”

​By the end of the conversation, she was walking out of the building with her own Bible from us. Her foster family was also given one for their youngest biological child, who had accompanied them that day. On this day, my faith grew. I love that I get to be a Chaplain.

Chaplain Kristi’s story is one of many that speak to the impact of our Father’s love on the hearts of everyone. Chaplains can provide comfort, hope, and the Lord’s love to teens that may not have otherwise had the opportunity to receive. Your support, during our Chaplaincy campaign, allows Chaplains Kristi, Mike, and Scott to continue to share our Lord’s love with teens and families who may need support and someone to tell them that they believe in them. Our mission starts here; providing a foundation of love and faith to inspire a safe, loving home environment for their family for generations to come.

Please click the button below to donate to our Chaplaincy campaign. Your donation will allow us to keep providing our Chaplaincy services to teens and families that desperately need someone to be a light for them during their hardest trials. We greatly appreciate you taking your time to read Kristi’s story and for your continued support.

Christopher's journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the critical role that our organization, alongside our partners, plays in transforming lives.

Overcoming Unimaginable Challenges

Christopher's life took an unexpected turn when he learned that his daughter had been placed in foster care due to a series of unfortunate events. His commitment to his daughter's well-being led him to make a life-altering decision - to move to Fort Worth from Danville, Virginia and embark on a challenging journey to gain custody and ensure a better future for her.

A Beacon of Support: Our Organization's Role

Upon his arrival in Fort Worth, Christopher found support in the Union Gospel Mission’s Men’s Program. Our Mentor Navigation services and collaboration with DRC/Day Resources for the homeless paved the way for Christopher to obtain essential documentation and employment opportunities, crucial steps towards rebuilding his life.

Our Mentor Navigator program played an instrumental role in providing Christopher with motivation, encouragement, and job search assistance. The support didn't stop there; MHMR services facilitated Christopher's journey towards mental and emotional healing, allowing him to take significant strides towards stability.

A Season of Renewal and Joy

Christopher's resilience was rewarded when he was granted in-person visitation with his daughter, culminating in a memorable Christmas celebration - a moment of pure joy and renewal. His dedication and compliance with every aspect of his service plan, including completing FOCUS+ for Fathers classes, set a remarkable example of commitment and parental responsibility.

A New Chapter Begins

Christopher's journey lead him to regain custody of his daughter; it led him to find love and build a new family. His upcoming court hearing, where a monitored return of his daughter has been recommended, marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Your Support Can Transform Lives

Christopher's story is a powerful reminder of the impact of your support. It highlights how our combined efforts can change the course of someone's life, offering them a second chance at a brighter future. As we share Christopher's journey, we invite you to continue supporting our mission. Your donations help us provide the essential services that empower individuals like Christopher to overcome challenges and build a new life filled with hope and opportunity.​

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of many, turning stories of struggle into narratives of success and hope. Join us in our mission to transform lives and foster a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

In the heart of Denton, a family's journey through adversity to reunification serves as an example of hope and a testament to resilience. Keith’s story begins at a point of profound challenge, with his family fragmented and the future uncertain. The family faced a series of hurdles that seemed insurmountable: unemployment, homelessness, and the daunting task of meeting the strict requirements set forth by child welfare services to reunite with their children.

Keith and his wife, once living in the grim shadows of motel rooms, grappled with the stigma of past evictions and the relentless quest for employment. The hopelessness of their situation loomed large, threatening the very fabric of their family. Yet, it was within this crucible of hardship that Reggie Moss, a Mentor with the FOCUS+ program, saw not just the struggle, but the unwavering spirit of a father and mother determined to forge a better future for their children.

Recognizing the importance of stable employment and housing in the process of family reunification, Reggie stepped in to provide Keith with the support he needed to navigate the complex landscape of recovery and rebuilding. Resources for emergency financial aid and food assistance were just the beginning. More significantly, Reggie offered guidance and encouragement as Keith and his wife embarked on their journey towards stability.

Keith's commitment to overcoming the obstacles before him was evident in his diligent compliance with the requirements set by OC-OK, including the successful completion of Focus+ for Fathers classes.

His efforts culminated in a moment of profound joy and relief on January 23, 2024, when Keith shared the news that their children had been returned home under Monitored Return. This milestone was not just a procedural step; it was a testament to the family's resilience and the tangible progress they had made towards creating a safer, more stable home environment.

Reggie’s role as the Mentor in Keith's story goes beyond referring this family to resources; it represents a partnership built on trust, support, and the shared goal of ensuring the well-being of children. Keith's employer, recognizing the family's ongoing need for stability, assisted in finding them a small place to rent. This gesture of community support underscores the importance of a collaborative approach in addressing the multifaceted challenges families, like Keith and his family, face.

As Keith looks to the future, his journey is far from over. In congratulating Keith on his determination and progress, we are reminded of the power of resilience, the importance of community support, and the transformative impact of tailored assistance in helping families overcome adversity.

Keith’s story is not just a narrative of struggle and success; it is a reflection of our mentoring services core task to decrease risk factors and build protective factors for families. By focusing on resilience, providing targeted support, and fostering a culture of collaboration, the FOCUS+ Mentoring is helping families, like Keith's, navigate the path to reunification and stability. It is a journey marked by challenges, but also by the unwavering belief in the possibility of change and the power of collective action to create safer, more nurturing environments for children and their families.

​“We the judges of Tarrant County, would like to acknowledge what a wonderful program the NewDay Services organization has with its FOCUS programs for men and women.  This program helps parents understand the importance that each has in their children’s lives,” said Judge Jenkins, Tarrant County Family Law Center.
 
“We have quite a volume of cases on our dockets and by having NewDay Services offer these programs, they cut down on the time we have to spend on cases where people just need to hear a different perspective,” said Judge Jenkins. “The cases where the parents have participated in the FOCUS classes help them to become better parents in co-parenting, which in turn keeps the non-custodial parent involved and provides the emotional and financial support needed in raising the child.  The earlier that the non-custodial parent is involved in a child’s life, the more likely that parent will bond and continue the relationship.”

“I don’t know why I’m in this class because I already know what I need to know about parenting. And I don’t want to be here because I have work,” said the FOCUS for Mothers participant. These were the first words from our fiery client’s mouth as she entered the room the first week of class. She sat there with her arms crossed and her headphones on as she was trying to see what we were about and if it was worth her time. But we weren’t concerned, we saw past her anger and saw that she was in pain, after all, her son had been taken away. The client was quiet for the first few weeks of class until week 5 rolled around, which is when we cover the subject of anger.

It was that week when the client opened up and shared the reason why her son was removed. She shared that she had hurt her son out of anger. Once she even smashed her son’s TV because she was so angry at the time, but unfortunately, she hadn’t recognized that she had a problem, at least not until we addressed such issues in our classes.

She shared that she had been working 3 jobs to distract herself from the emptiness she felt since her son had been taken from her, she simply didn’t want to deal with her emotions. Throughout the FOCUS for Mothers classes, she began to understand that it was time to stop running from herself, the time had come to face the music if she wanted to get her son back. We all rallied around her and supported her by uplifting her and reminding her that she is capable of this and much more! During the following weeks, she shared that she had quit her two other jobs because she realized that she needed to take care of herself (as a result of our class on worth and self-esteem) and this was a big step for her! She shared that she gained the confidence to do so through the love and encouragement she had been receiving from us.
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She thanked us for having patience with her and seeing past what she had said at the beginning of class. Fast forward, the client was finally reunited with her son, and she could not be happier! She thanked us for all the love and support we had offered her, “because, without us, she didn’t know if she would’ve made it,” said the FOCUS for Mothers participant.  

Why chaplaincy? Here is the short answer (Please note this example is from 19 years of experience and not from one particular story). I was sitting in on a meeting when a frantic knock on the door caught my full attention. “We have a person in our office talking about hurting themselves,” said a staff member from the court. After politely excusing myself from the meeting, I was led to the office where the person was sitting with his arms crossed, who clearly was very angry. I invited him into my office where he could be more comfortable. When we arrived at my office, I heard a story of frustration, fear, and hopelessness, followed by tears.

This person was in desperate need of hope, love, and truth. He has been fighting everyone and everything. The world looks like Mt. Everest to him. But a caring ear gave him a little hope. By adding truth and love to the hope tank, I was able to help him calm down. I helped him to come up with a plan, and a precious smile was returned.

Chaplaincy provides the element of hope that is more precious than oxygen because without it there wouldn’t be any reason to breathe. These days we are struggling to keep ourselves above water. It seems like we are drowning without help or hope, and the worst part is that you begin to believe no one cares.
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Now, you would be amazed at how far a little love and care can carry someone. A simple act of kindness can inspire change and hope. This is my calling, to listen and be kind to others. This is what the Lord has placed in my heart and through Him and only Him, I will continue to inspire hope through His word. 

​There are times when I wonder how someone my age comes across to the young teens with whom I work. I’m not in the least hesitant to tell them how old I am. The subject came up in a disarming way during a recent visit with a boy who was being released after a long stay in detention. I asked what the experience had taught him. He said that he had learned a lot about God and the Bible while he was there and assured me that he wasn’t going to forget it when he got home.
 
He was profuse in his expressions of gratitude to me for spending time with him while he was there. I was basking in the glow of his affirmations when he said, and I quote, "I really appreciate you for coming out here to teach us. Here you are at your age spending some of your last days trying to keep us out of trouble. You may not have many days left and you are using them to help us." I guess it's good to know that my advanced age has some advantages! 

​“I remember a girl, who had run from home and was frightened by her own crime. You spoke with her before her detention hearings. She practices a different religion, but you helped her with her trauma. The fact that you guys can meet with any child regardless of their background and provide support always helps them feel like they have someone to talk to. Kristi, you are more than a chaplain at Tarrant County Juvenile Services (TCJS). You always have a smile on your face, a listening ear, a caring demeanor, and advice and support at the ready,” said a Juvenile Tarrant County Juvenile Services case worker. “Over the years, I have witnessed you support youth who were worried, stressed, overwhelmed, and in need. You constantly provide your uplifting spirit to both youth and staff. You are the ‘calm’ at TCJS. God’s love and light shine through you and everyone at TCJS are blessed by your work.” 

​Nancy was forced to relocate to Texas due to a traumatic and abusive relationship. She had been trying to get a divorce from her controlling and abusive husband for quite a while. Nancy had tried to escape her situation, but her then-husband used intimidation and coercion to make her stay.
 
Unfortunately for Nancy, her ex-husband became more abusive when she found out that he was having an affair. Eventually, she was able to leave but struggled to get back on her feet after her divorce. To heal the pain and anguish she was feeling, Nancy began drinking away her sorrows.
 
Her despair consumed her, and her pain blinded her from what was truly important, her children. Nancy’s dependency on alcohol had gotten so out of control that she was losing her grip on reality, a reality in which her children were going to be taken by the CPS system.
 
Now is too late, Nancy thought to herself, everything is lost, there is no way out. But hope remained, and in her darkest moment Nancy chose to live, she chose to stop drinking, and she chose to fight for her kids. Nancy was moved to a Domestic Shelter located in Texas, meanwhile, her children were placed with family members. Around this time, she registered for my online class, but she still had doubts. Who could blame her? After all, the sense of failure loomed over her. So, I reassured her that she was making the right choice telling her that this would be her first step to getting her children back.
 
NewDay Services offered Nancy, through our Focus for Mother’s classes, weekly emotional support, and encouragement. Nancy checked in with me every week with updates. She encouraged others to find hope through it all. Always positive whenever her children were mentioned. She attended my classes every week and humbly remain a ray of light.
 
Nancy graduated from my class on time. She was able to find gainful employment, and currently, she is looking for a home closer to her children. Her case is currently being monitored, with the hopes of her children coming home officially in September. Nancy has been blessed with an amazing family and a support system that stepped in when she needed it the most. She has learned so much from this class and still looks forward to learning more. Nancy states: “I don’t know how else to describe it, other than I was finally ready to surrender.  I let whatever needed to happen just happen. That level of surrender and willingness has been the key to my success.”  

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​“I have had the privilege of working alongside Chaplain Kristi Lambert at the Juvenile Detention Center for approximately 10 years now. I have witnessed Chaplain Kristi speak to female juveniles before and after their court hearings, and while they are being held in detention; offering them comfort and words of wisdom. Kristi has also helped me through difficult times when I needed a listening ear and a friend,” said a Juvenile Detention Center co-worker.
 
“Like any other normal day, Kristi came to my office to say Hello and quickly noticed I was not being myself. She asked if I was ok and I replied with a simple yes… but Kristi knowing me so well, noticed that I wasn’t being myself. She didn’t ask me any questions or to go into details about what I was going through, instead, she just offered to pray with me,” said a Juvenile Detention Center co-worker. “I really needed it… this small gesture from Chaplain Kristi had a huge impact on the rest of my day. I am thankful that the Juvenile Detention Center has Chaplains in the building, because not only does Kristi pray for the juveniles in the system, she prays for their family members and her co-workers as well. Thank you, Chaplain Kristi Lambert.”

I can tell you now… this will be one of those few days in life I won’t forget. I had spoken to Gary over the phone days prior to seeing him, and although I was looking forward to interviewing him, I was not looking forward to driving all the way to Dallas. I had worked that prior weekend and I was tired, exhausted would be the word I would use to describe how I felt. So, driving to Dallas wasn’t exactly something I wanted to do.
 
I have seen most of the world, I have witnessed destruction and poverty, and I have seen true hunger in the eyes of a child, and praise be to the Lord of Kings, everywhere I’ve been, I have seen the Lord working in mysterious ways, ever-present through strong men and women of God. But even those faithful men and women, as I, were weary, worn out, exhausted, and drained. They had a look that only one that has been there can recognize, only one that carries the invisible scars can see.
 
So, I wasn’t expecting much if I am honest. To make it even worst, instead of me asking God to give me words for someone in his situation, here I was thinking of my own problems, which by the way are small hiccups that have come from huge blessings the Lord has given me.
             
I saw Gary for the first time at a park, behind the Inn where Gary is currently staying with his son. I remember thinking that he didn’t look like someone we would imagine in his situation, and it wasn’t his appearance, it was the way he greeted me, full of joy, he looked like he didn’t have a worry in the world like he knew something I didn’t… or did I and conveniently had forgotten for a minute…?  
 
Here is a man who lost his mother less than a year ago, one to whom he was close and who had stood by him throughout his lowest moments. Three months later he gets his youngest child, who was taken away from his ex-wife by CPS and then from him by the system. Someone who through all this also becomes homeless and unemployed. But despite it all, he holds tight to the peace the Lord placed in his heart. 
 
“I praise Him for the new home that is on the way… I praise Him for the new car that is on the way. We want God to always give us something… have we thought about blessing and thanking God with our lives? This… is what we need to do…,” said Gary Rider. This is a man who is in surviving mode in my view… and he is the one reminding me? How self-center and blind have I become? 
 
After that day I thank God for allowing me to be a part of this man’s life through NewDay Services (NDS). I thank the Lord for reminding me how blessed I am for being able to serve right next to His people, helping those like Gary who are going through hard times get their children back.           
 
Since that day I thank the Lord because my NDS family and I, are truly trying to make a difference in the lives of the children whose parents we serve, and I refuse and will not take it for granted.

​One of our FOCUS for Fathers participants, Mr. D, was not having any success in conveying any progress he was having regarding how he was improving his life with his caseworker. Mr. D had complied with all of  demands and even went beyond what he was required by taking additional parenting classes and paying for them himself. The poor lack of communication with the Child Welfare caseworker continued, making the process longer which increased the extension of time before he could be reunited with his child, causing Mr. D to experience increased levels of frustration and anxiety.
 
Mentor Navigator Francisco Hernandez trained Mr. D in how to navigate the CPS system and communicate effectively with the them by presenting formal requests and documenting all interactions, and others involved in his case. Mr. D was also trained in how to draft a document that can clarify misinformation and identify all his achievements and hard work.
 
After working closely with Mr. D, he was able to clarify misinformation and clearly communicated his readiness and capability to protect and provide a safe environment for his daughter. Communication between Mr. D and Child Welfare caseworker improved. He stated that his Child Welfare caseworker was treating him with respect and that the caseworker became invested in Mr. D's effort of being reunified with his daughter. His visitation time with his daughter was increased and he was allowed to have weekend unsupervised visits. Mr. D expressed how the training provided to him through our services increased his confidence in his ability to work and communicate with Child Welfare caseworker and that he no longer experienced frustration with the process. Finally, after a long process, Mr. D. was awarded Monitored Return. He was able to reunite with his daughter and a few months later with his wife. Our purpose and main goal is to keep families together in loving, safe homes. Mission accomplished!

​Last week I prayed with a young-looking 14-year-old boy as he waited to go to court. He had been at Kimbo (Juvenile Detention Center) for several weeks and I had gotten to learn a little about him. As we talked, I asked how I could best pray for him. His eyes began to fill with tears and what he told me caused my eyes to moisten as well. He asked that I pray that the judge would allow him to go home with his mother.
 
What made this unusual is that he had not seen his mother since he was three years old. He said she had abandoned her husband and their children, of which he was the youngest, and disappeared for about twelve years. When things became untenable for his father, CPS stepped in, and he was taken into foster care. In the meantime, the mother was able to get her life together and she began trying to re-establish a connection with her forsaken family. Somehow, she was located and contacted. She jumped at the chance to get her son back if he would have her. He was more than willing to welcome her back into his life. So, the scene shifts to the courtroom where the reunion occurred, and he met his mom essentially for the first time. The judge approved the arrangement and the young man left court with the mother he did not even know he had. Forgiven and reunited. Please pray that the home they are going to establish will be a haven of love, security, joy, and peace where this boy can thrive in every way.