The bunkhouse project has been part of the fabric of Jeremiah's Crossing since 2010 when members of First Presbyterian Church Oostburg asked if there was something they could build for us.
After some thought, we decided on a bunkhouse to help house work campers. We envisioned a two room building, each room with a private bathroom, and would be stick built construction.
We were discussing our good fortune with the mother of several of our students. She mentioned that her family used to travel and camp quite a bit before they adopted their children who had special needs. Since then, camping and overnight stays had become nearly impossible. God laid it on our hearts to consider creating a bunkhouse that not only served our work campers, but also served our families.
You see, many of our students have difficulty processing new places and new sensory stimulation. By allowing them to come to Jeremiah's Crossing, they could enjoy the experience of packing a bag and going away for the weekend. The ranch would be familiar and new at the same time. A new place to stay, but a safe place to learn and grown.
We decided on a plan that included three bedrooms, three full baths (one accessible), a living room/dining room space and a galley kitchen. The bedrooms would bunk 6 each and the third bedroom would include a queen bed and connected bathroom.
The bunkhouse became a log construction when a load of precut logs became available at a very good price. The building will cool itself in the summer and will retain heat in the winter making it quite comfortable and energy efficient. A log bunkhouse, isn't that what you would expect at a riding ranch?
When work campers were in residence, they would have room to sleep 14 and have space to get in out of the weather. Families could rent the bunkhouse for a nominal cleaning fee.
We have been helped by First Presbyterian Church Oostburg, members of English Settlement Church, two anonymous donors, an anonymous work crew, members of several work camps and many angels who have made donations to our project including Team Schierl Companies. This dream would not be possible without all of the people who have supported our effort.