The Masonic Home
for Children at Oxford

Prior to arriving at MHCO, I had experienced many transitions and suffered from neglect and abuse. My dream was to graduate from high school and go to college so I could have a better life. I credit MHCO for supporting, mentoring and helping me actualize my dreams. When I realized that they wanted nothing but for me to succeed and were all committed to helping me, I knew my dreams of a better life were becoming reality and I had found my home. I will never forget my journey and am committed to supporting youths from similar backgrounds in their pursuit of better outcomes. Given the proper foundational supports, any child can excel in life despite where they come from.

I came to the home when I was just 3 years old with my sister. I remember growing up and thinking, "why me, why us, why does this have to be my life" but as I got older, I realized that growing up at the Masonic Home for Children was a blessing. I've built relationships with staff members that have lasted even after leaving the home. The home taught me many skills that I've been able to use in my everyday life. They teach you financial management, provide academic tutoring when needed, and give you a safe space to be a kid and have fun while you navigate through any hardships. The houseparents truly care about you and want you to become the best version of yourself. The Masonic Home changed my life for the better and I will be forever grateful for them.

I was fortunate that a room and an opportunity were available to me, my brother, and two sisters here. I now support MHCO because I want to guarantee that same opportunity for children in need today. I know firsthand what this home – my home in Oxford – gives a child, because it was given to me. It was provided by those (child care workers) who helped raise me; by the teachers, coaches, and chaplains; by the staff of the Home who taught me with guidance, care, and stability, the basic values and morals of life. I was supported by every donor, friend and believer in this Home, many of whom never saw my face or heard my story, but who vowed to give me an opportunity to live, grow, and learn.

I lived at the Masonic Home for Children for about 6 years. I came when I was 12 years old and stayed until I graduated high school. The Masonic Home gave me the resources and tools I needed to become an independent and successful adult. I now work here as the Marketing and Event Coordinator and I am really enjoying being back at the place that helped shape me into who I am today, alongside a lot of the people who played a part in that. I still have relationships with the staff and lifelong friendships with some of the residents I lived with. I will always be grateful for the MHCO!

I moved to Oxford Orphanage (now MHCO) when I was ten years old and stayed there fourteen years. At first the transition was hard for me but, after the first year, I loved it! I began to call Oxford Orphanage my “home.” I lived in Dunn Cottage as helper to the house parent. That was when I learned I had a passion for working with children. The home gave me the opportunity for a college education and I earned a degree in Early Childhood Education. The home taught me how important education, independence, discipline, and most of all, family values really are. Living there was the best time of my life! Today, I have a won-derful job, loving family and friends, and a place to always call my home.

In 2006, I moved to the Masonic Home for Children as a 7 year old kid along with the rest of my siblings; 4 sisters and 2 brothers. Me and one of my sisters, Abigail, ended up in Eller cottage while the rest of my siblings split off to live in their designated homes. I grew up in a pretty neglected and abusive household. Living at the home gave me the comfort, stability and security that I never knew. With all of the new love, care, and fun activities I was receiving, I grew to love my new home and enjoyed being there. I had many opportunities at the home that I would’ve never been able to have living with my parents. One-on-one tutoring, summer trips, free college and even taking a school field trip to Costa Rica! Moving there was one of the most important events in my life because I got a new family at the end. I stay in contact with my old house parents who loved and raised me. The girls I lived with are now known as my sisters. I even met my husband at the Masonic Home whom I now share a son with. The home gave me more than I could ever ask for! I will forever be thankful to have been a resident there. Forever an ELLER GIRL!