Richard Williams trusts in the Lord to provide. And He always has come through, Williams said.

For nearly four decades, Williams – or “Big R,” as he is known locally – and His Kids have benefited from the generosity of folks, both spiritually and financially.

Williams hopes the community will continue to support His Kids ministry by helping the organization fulfill a longtime dream of the former state trooper’s: to have a place to call home.

After utilizing space at local churches and most recently at the Holiday House, Williams is working with attorney Mike Martin to initiate His Kids’ 501(c)(3) non-profit status so the organization can accept taxdeductible donations to purchase land and construct a building of its own.

“To meet the needs of our kids, we really need a permanent site that will provide for their day-to-day needs,” Williams said.

His Kids meets each Monday at Grace Fellowship, but Williams hopes that a new building will allow him and group volunteers to do more for the community’s youth.

Williams is seeking a safe, Christian environment where kids under 18 can receive the emotional and spiritual support they need to become productive adults.

He envisions the building to be equipped to provide one meal a day, laundry facilities and showers. In addition, a building of their own will enable continued support for homework and offer a short-term place for escape, said Williams.

Currently, His Kids’ weekly meetings offer group games, dinner served by local churches, group worship, Bible study for children, weekend retreats and summer camp opportunities, and positive interaction between youths and adults.

Williams said when a new building is opened, he plans to move his recreational vehicle on site so he can be a continuous presence for the kids.

“I want us to be around more than just Monday nights,” he said. “I want His Kids to be able to offer a child services whenever they are needed.”

Williams considered existing buildings but said none of them meet the needs of the program.

“We have a group of churches that do so much for us, and it has been a great statement of the love of Jesus Christ cutting through denominational boundaries,” he said. “The food, fellowship and teaching have been a life-changing service to the children, and we don’t want to see that stop.”

While the daily needs of youth are being met as best as they can, Williams seeks a permanent home for His Kids. He envisions property in the eastern part of the city consisting of several lots with room for a metal building and an outside play area and basketball goal. Williams hopes to have a 2,000- square-foot building constructed with the potential to add on in the future.

He is confident the community will come through to help, as it always has when there is a need, he said. “We are so thankful for the participation each church, youth group and individual has provided us in the last year,” Williams said. “Because of all you have done and all you are, this next vision has become thinkable and possible.

“What a statement of unity the people and churches of Lampasas are making by providing generous financial and time contributions to the well being of His Kids.”

Donations may be made for His Kids through Grace Fellowship while the non-profit account is being established, or send a check to His Kids, P.O. Box 1323, Lampasas, TX 76550.