FAQs

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Sovereign LORD, you are God! Your covenant is trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant. Now be pleased to bless the house of your servant, that it may continue forever in your sight; for you, Sovereign LORD, have spoken, and with your blessing the house of your servant will be blessed forever. – 2 Samuel 7:28-29

When did Parker Street Ministries begin?

Parker Street Ministries originated in 1996 as a ministry of one church seeking to bring change in one impoverished and crime-ridden neighborhood. It was called the Parker Street Project. Over the years, more churches, community members, and businesses began participating. Parker Street Ministries was incorporated in 1999. PSM received non-profit 501(c)(3) status in 2000.

What results do you see in the academic enrichment programs?

For well over a decade, 98% of students enrolled in our Academic Enrichment Program have been promoted to the next grade level!

What are the geographic boundaries of Parker Street Ministries?

The geographic boundaries are Memorial Boulevard to the north, the In-town Bypass to the south, Florida Avenue to the west, and Ingraham Avenue to the east.

What are the demographics of the Parker Street neighborhood?

Within PSM’s boundaries there are more than 600 addresses. The majority of the households are rentals.

The 2023 AEP students’ families are 58% black, 7% multiracial, and 18% Hispanic; 43% live in the extremely low income category as related to the Federal Poverty Level (2022) (Source: Intake Forms Fall 2023).

The Parker Street Neighborhood is in the Delta patrol zone for the Lakeland Police Department. They received 16,361 calls for assistance in 2023 (Source: LPD 2023: Calls for Service).

How many students do you serve?

More than 100 students in kindergarten through grade 12 are served.

What is PSM’s relationship with Desire Street Ministries?

Parker Street Ministries enjoys a strategic friendship with Danny Wuerffel and Desire Street Ministries in Atlanta. Danny serves on our advisory committee, and Executive Director Tim Mitchell serves as a legacy coach to Desire Street Ministries’ partners. This networking gives PSM the chance to share our programs with other urban ministries throughout the southeast. PSM continues to be a stand-alone 501c3 organization governed by an independent, local board of trustees. The majority of our funding source is local donors.

Is Parker Street Ministries a church?

No, Parker Street Ministries is a faith-based nonprofit with a 501(c)(3) designation. We are blessed with a board and staff representing many Christian denominations.

Is Parker Street Ministries a homeless provider?

No. Parker Street Ministries serves residents only in our geographic boundaries. In order to avoid duplication of service and be faithful to our mission, we serve our residents and refer homeless individuals to the other nearby providers who we collaborate with often.

Did Tim Mitchell found Parker Street Ministries?

No. The Parker Street Project was started by Shepherd Road Presbyterian Church. Tim Mitchell was an early volunteer and resident and later became an employee in 1999.