For the past four years, The Broken Arrow Ranch, near Wood Mountain, has been reaching out to youth in need and now they are reaching out for your help.
The ranch was established by Christ the Solid Rock Ministries, that was founded by former pastor in the area Rick Aupperle in 1998. Modeling a similar ministry to youth in Oklahoma, Christ the Solid Rock Ministries was incorporated and registered as a non-profit organization.
The ranch website says, “Christ the Solid Rock Ministries and in particular Broken Arrow Youth Ranch was created to minister to families in distress. Adults overwhelmed with personal issues find it extremely difficult to properly care for their children. Sadly what often prevents adults from going for help is - ‘what do I do with my children?’”
Connie Moffatt, the secretary-treasurer and board liaison for the ranch, said, “There is such a great need for helping families that have been over whelmed.” Moffat says that the ranch offers a different option for those that find going to Social Services too daunting. “They have an addiction problem and they’ve kind of burned all their bridges with their family members, now they are feeling isolated.” said Moffat.
Presently, families hear about the ranch through word of mouth or local churches. Moffatt is working on partnering with counseling agencies to reach families at risk.
Although there have been children returned to families earlier, the ranch plans to keep children for a minimum of two years, and if necessary, until graduation.
At the ranch they feel that it takes two years for the parent to become fully rehabilitated in order to provide a stable home and not be at risk to fall back into unhealthy practices.
Care for the children is formed on a Christian foundation. “We offer children an opportunity to learn about our Saviour and about life in a working ranch setting complete with horses and cattle.”
“The home atmosphere allows for healthy spiritual and family dynamics to be developed and modeled.” says the website.
Currently there are two couples living on the ranch, Todd and Lara Moraz who care for the children and Rick and Maureen Pituley who care for the ranch.
Moffat reported that four youth have been through the program at the ranch and have moved on. “Currently we have 7 children at the ranch and we have room for 3 more.”
Coronach resident Barry McNevin, has been on the board of directors for three years and is currently promoting a golf tournament in Coronach to raise money for the ranch.
The ranch does not receive any financial help from government. The ranch is currently raising money for a “Family Renewal Centre”. Plans are to renovate a donated building to house women at risk and their children. Moffat says they will provide counseling and access to education to recovering mothers over a two year period.
Donations to this ministry are received from churches, corporations and private individuals. If you would like donate: Solid Rock Ministries, Box 44, Wood Mountain, SK. S0H 4L0. Email: canadahelps.org or online www.canadahelps.com.
