Lufkin’s Planning and Zoning Board met on Thursday and voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council approve a zoning change for a new ministry operated by Freedom Church Lufkin. The proposed facility, called A Place of Hope, will be located at 1419 Atkinson Drive.
Ministry’s mission and services
Pastor Jordan Collard explained that the ministry is designed to break the cycle of poverty for local families. Services will include help obtaining driver’s licenses and Social Security cards, job‑search assistance, and support for new mothers and families. In addition, the ministry will continue to provide clothing and food to the community, echoing Freedom Church’s long‑standing commitment to caring for those in need.
Collard noted that the ministry partners with local organizations such as ADAC, the Legacy Institute, and the coalition at Angelina College to expand its reach and effectiveness.
Community concerns addressed
A recent letter of protest raised questions about who the ministry would serve and the impact on the neighborhood. Pastor Collard responded that the people who need these services already live in North Lufkin, and the ministry’s purpose is to serve them where they reside. He also clarified that a second‑hand clothing and resale shop previously operated at the site, and the new ministry will operate on a reduced schedule, resulting in less foot traffic than the former business.
Parking and traffic plans
Board member Gabriel Alamo asked about parking logistics alongside a nearby moving‑truck rental operation. Collard said the paint store that leases the property also controls the truck parking lot. The store’s owner is supportive of the ministry and has offered to relocate trucks to a tree line if needed, creating six to eight additional parking spaces. The ministry expects only ten to twelve cars over a two‑hour period, rather than a constant stream of vehicles.
Volunteer staffing and safety
Collard said the ministry will be staffed by roughly six volunteers each day. A zero‑tolerance policy for disruption and misconduct will be enforced to keep the environment orderly and safe for visitors.
The center plans to be open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon, providing a focused window for assistance while minimizing impact on surrounding businesses.
Next steps
The Planning and Zoning Board’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Lufkin City Council, which will review the proposed zone change twice before making a final decision. If approved, A Place of Hope will become an additional resource for families seeking to improve their economic stability and self‑sufficiency in Lufkin.
Local leaders and faith‑based groups have praised the initiative as a practical expression of Christian service that aligns with the city’s values of family support and individual liberty.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
