OUR HISTORY
In 2004, while participating in a Bible study focused around The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, Diane V. Schofield learned about Hands Of Mercy Everywhere, Inc. (H.O.M.E.) a program of LSF from a close friend from church, who encouraged Diane to attend one of their first Board meetings. Diane was offered the position of executive director and she accepted. At this point, God’s purpose for her was clear, and to this day, she is continuing to serve His purpose. In 2006 Diane founded the second maternity home known as the Hope house.
With two side by side homes, “Faith” and “Hope House,” H.O.M.E. - LSF has created a loving home that provides a clean, organized, safe and spiritually driven environment where teens have a chance to be teens and also have the support they need to be confident young mothers. H.O.M.E. - LSF continues to upgrade the campus with a comforting style. The funding for these homes comes from federal, state and local grants, churches, private donations, businesses, clubs, and organizations.
In 2012, Hands of Mercy Everywhere, Inc. (H.O.M.E.) a program of LSF was awarded $998,000 to build a new home with 8 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, known as Grace House.
Hard work and dedication to this cause since 2004, has become Diane’s passion. Diane V. Schofield, Founder, and CEO has been recognized by the governor, as he appointed her to the Independent Living Services Advisory Council in Tallahassee, Florida. She also serves on the board of directors for the Florida Children's Coalition (FCC). Additionally, she is a founding member of the Statewide Coalition for Pregnant and Parenting Teens in Foster Care. Diane’s work does not stop there. She is currently developing programs for interns with the University of Florida and working on a National Social Policy study for teen mothers in foster care. In 2014 Diane was honored by Marion County Children's Alliance with "The Children's Champion Award". Although being recognized is appreciated, her greatest reward is the success and growth she sees through the teen mothers (and sometimes fathers) who are touched by H.O.M.E. - LSF.
H.O.M.E. - LSF believes every teen mom should have access to education and childcare while a teen mother and beyond. H.O.M.E. - LSF wants pregnant or teen moms to know they can have hopes and dreams for themselves and their children. Through guidance from above, H.O.M.E. - LSF is making an incredible impact on young lives.
THE BASSINET
Diane's mother, pregnant and accompanied by her grandmother, went shopping in Manhattan. While shopping, they spotted a beautifully embroidered bassinet in a store front window, with a pillow bearing the name "Diane." They returned home, and soon after, Diane's mother decided to name her daughter Diane. Knowing this, Diane’s grandmother went back to the store and purchased the bassinet and pillow. After using it for Diane, all eight of Diane's mother's children also used this bassinet.
Over the years, the bassinet has traveled extensively, having been sent to 62 different family members. It has been transported by various means, including driving, trains, and shipping. The family has taken the opportunity to redecorate it according to their own taste and preferences. Each recipient sees the bassinet for the first time at their baby shower.
It became a cherished family tradition for the bassinet to be decorated and presented at baby showers within the family. It currently resides at H.O.M.E. - LSF, and still makes its journey as needed.