CLIENT SPOTLIGHT
Redemption Home 1 Inc.
Opening New Doors: Orlando Youth Housing Program Expands With BBIF Support
DEMOGRAPHIC
Youth Housing & Support Services (Group Home Care)
LOCATION
Orlando, FL
In Orlando, Redemption Home 1 Inc. has steadily become a lifeline for boys ages 13 to 17 who need structure, guidance, and a place to feel safe. Since welcoming its first residents in 2023, the organization has remained focused on offering more than shelter. Guided by Directors Marcus James, Ford Frankie, and Dalmane Gray, the team is driven by a shared belief that every child deserves the chance to regain confidence and envision a stronger future.
LOAN PROGRAM
Working Capital
THE CHALLENGE
Rising Demand Creates an Urgent Need for Expansion
What began as a single home soon grew into four group homes, now supporting 17 young men. Each home operates with purpose, providing not only a stable living environment but also meals, tutoring, counseling, job readiness training, and steady encouragement from staff who are present around the clock. As word spread about the quality of care provided, the calls for placement increased. Before long, all four homes reached full capacity, leaving six additional youth waiting for space.
To continue meeting this growing need, the organization had to move quickly. Opening a fifth home required securing another property, hiring additional staff, and covering daily essentials. State-required safety upgrades, including a fire sprinkler system estimated at twenty thousand dollars, added even more pressure. Without working capital, expansion would slow and leave vulnerable youth without the safe, structured environment they urgently needed.
THE SOLUTION
Partnering With BBIF to Open a New Home
When the leadership team connected with BBIF, they found a partner who wanted to understand their mission as deeply as they lived it. While many traditional lenders hesitated because of the organization’s nonprofit status, BBIF took time to listen, ask questions, and recognize the value of the work being done.
After reviewing the organization’s needs, BBIF approved a working capital loan that will allow Redemption Home 1 to open a new home in Pine Hills. With this support, the organization can complete required safety upgrades, stabilize payroll during the early phases of expansion, and ensure every new resident receives the meals, structure, and mentorship that define the program.
“I’m deeply grateful for BBIF’s consistent support and guidance. They’ve provided the resources my business needs to grow, and their team is always professional, responsive, and genuinely committed to the success of small businesses like mine. With their help, I feel confident expanding my group homes and making an even greater impact in the community.”
Marcus James
Owner
THE IMPACT
More Space, More Support, and More Opportunity for Youth
With BBIF’s partnership, Redemption Home 1 is preparing to open its doors to more young men who need a stable place to grow. The fifth home will reduce waitlists and give more teens access to counseling, life skills training, tutoring, and consistent care.
For Marcus James and the leadership team, this partnership represents more than financial support. It affirms belief in their mission and provides the foundation needed to continue offering secure, structured homes where young men can build confidence and begin shaping brighter futures. With a clear plan, renewed momentum, and steadfast backing from BBIF, Redemption Home 1 is ready to keep growing, keep serving, and keep opening doors for the youth who need them most.
