Andy Squires, Founder

 

"God first called me into the prison ministry in 1979.  I started out ministering at Lowndes State Prison by an invitation from my father-in-law.  Prior to this ministry I was a businessman and worked with inmates on a work release program in the early 70’s.  After my store was burglarized, I overheard an inmate’s plan to rob a place when he got out of prison.  I then realized that the Word of God was much needed in the prison system in South Georgia and North Florida.  Azalea City Prison Ministry was founded in 1979 and incorporated in 1985. 

 

We exist as a Christian organization consisting of ministers from all denominations in the surrounding community.  As of 2011 we minister in 37 prisons across Georgia and Florida.  We have jail ministry in Lowndes and Brooks County jails.  Our youth detention ministry, Jeneration, goes to three different YDC’S.  We conduct over 200 spiritual revival meetings at the prisons during the year and approximately 800 jail services each year.

 

 Approximately 80% of our prison population is totally indigent.  No one will contribute to their monetary, emotional, or spiritual needs.  During the year we try to support the Chaplaincy program with literature and toiletries when possible.  At Christmas we try to provide soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo, lotion and some type of snack and soda to all of the institutions we minister in as well as others who request help.  In 2011 we anticipate distributing to about 50,000 inmates.

 

In 2001 we purchased the property for our “whole-way” house, the Refuge of Hope.  We are excited about what God is doing and how He has provided each and every thing we need for this ministry.  Not only did he provide the ability to purchase the 46 acre property but also everything on it.  We have two 4,000 sq. ft. dormitories that will accommodate 44 men.  We have and amphitheatre where community events and fund raising events can be held.  We have our new visitation and recreation building as we as a ministry center that serves as out chapel, classroom, and administrative space not to mention the vehicles, bus, tractor, mowing equipment and all the things we need to accomplish His work every day.

 

God is at work on behalf of the incarcerated.  We are happy and excited to be a part of this work."