Remember those in prison as though you were with them, and those mistreated as though you felt their pain. —Hebrews 13:3 (NLT)
At Koinonia Farm, we strive to embody this call, extending compassion to those on the margins of society. Hospitality Beyond Borders reaches out to detained immigrants, offering support and dignity to those affected by deportation and detention.
Reaching Out to Stewart Detention Center
Just 37 miles from Koinonia Farm, Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, Georgia, holds undocumented immigrants awaiting possible deportation. Members of our community regularly visit, providing companionship to those facing profound isolation. Despite challenges like scratched plexiglass and malfunctioning phones, our presence transcends language barriers and offers comfort to detainees who are often lonely and far from family.
The Birth of Hospitality Beyond Borders
This ministry began humbly, sparked by a letter from a detainee. Facing deportation to a country he did not remember, a man who had lived in the U.S. since childhood asked for one simple thing—a set of clothes to replace his prison uniform. He would be required to wear the uniform on the plane but was permitted to change before deplaning. Moved by this request, we began assembling backpacks filled with essentials, offering a small gesture of dignity to those facing similar situations.
Today, each week, we deliver backpacks filled with basic clothing—pants, shirts, socks, underwear, and shoes—to ensure that detainees depart with dignity. Through this act of kindness, we aim to make each deportee feel remembered and respected.
How You Can Help
You can be part of this ministry’s mission to restore dignity and extend compassion in four impactful ways:
1. Sponsor a Backpack
For a tax-deductible donation of $75, you can sponsor a backpack filled with essentials for a detainee being deported. Koinonia will handle the shopping and delivery, making this a meaningful gift option for holidays or birthdays, whether in honor of a loved one or simply as a personal act of giving. We’re happy to send a personal note to the person you are honoring.
Your gift provides more than just clothing—it offers dignity and care to someone in need.
2. General Donation
General donations of any amount help sustain Koinonia Farm’s ministry to detainees. Your tax-deductible contribution not only supports the backpacks but also covers fuel and operational expenses for the frequent trips to Stewart Detention Center. Every donation, large or small, helps this ministry thrive.
Keep this vital ministry thriving with a gift today
3. Donate New or Lightly Worn Clothing and Backpacks
The government limits what detainees can take when flown to their home countries. Please consider donating any of the following new or lightly worn items:
Men’s and women’s shoes (all sizes)
- Zippered backpacks or duffel bags
- Men’s pants (waist sizes 30-34)
- Men’s underwear (sizes small, medium, large)
- Women’s pants (small, medium)
- Women’s shirts (all sizes)
- Women’s underwear and bras (sports bras are best)
- Sweatshirts and hoodies (all sizes)
- Socks
Please ship or bring items to: Hospitality Beyond Borders, Koinonia Farm, 1324 GA Highway 49 S, Americus, GA 31719-9508
If you have questions, please contact us at 229-924-0391.
4. Volunteer
If you’re in the area, consider joining us in delivering these backpacks. Your help means so much to us and those we serve. Please call 229-924-0391 to learn more.
