Embracing Faith Behind Bars
Transforming lives through hope and guidance from the Word of God.
Discover hope and faith
Our Mission
Our Mission
At Lowcountry Prison Ministries, we follow Jesus Christ to:
- Restore dignity to incarcerated individuals.
- Rebuild lives through faith-based support.
- Reconnect families affected by incarceration.
What We Do
- Provide Bible-based classes and spiritual mentorship.
- Assist with driver’s licenses, clothing, and employment.
- Support sober living and stable housing.
- Mentor children impacted by incarceration.
Our Goals
- Expand to more correctional facilities in Georgia and South Carolina.
- Develop programs for spiritual and personal growth.
- Train passionate volunteers for prison ministry.
- Measure the impact of our efforts to ensure effectiveness.
please Help Our Cause and God bless
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our mission.
Checks may be payable to
LOWCOUNTRY PRISON MINISTRIES
and mailed to
5710 Ogeechee Road
Suite 200, PO Box 234
Savannah, GA 31405
OR click the DONATE BUTTON. Thank you again.
Keep scrolling for more information.
EIN #33-3379288
WHY WE CHOSE THIS MISSION
UNDERSTAND US MORE
A Personal Journey
"As someone who has experienced incarceration, I understand the challenges faced by those behind bars. Through faith and support, I turned my life around. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord, and He will guide our paths. Our ministry aims to provide that guidance and hope to others."
Partnerships
- Palmer Pre-Release Center (South Carolina): Monthly visits for spiritual guidance.
- Coastal State Prison (Savannah, Georgia): Weekly classes and mentorship.
- Prison Fellowship: Teaching curriculum to equip inmates for reintegration.
Welcome to LOWCOUNTRY PRISON MINISTRIES
Prison Ministry Initiative
Current Partnerships
We are grateful for our established partnerships, which allow us to carry out our mission effectively:
- Palmer Pre-Release Center in South Carolina: This facility has welcomed our ministry efforts, and we have been able to connect with inmates, offering them spiritual guidance and support as they prepare to transition back into society.
- Coastal State Prison in Savannah, Georgia: Our partnership here enables us to engage with a diverse group of individuals, providing them with hope and encouragement through our ministry work.
Goals and Objectives
Our primary goal is to extend our reach to every correctional facility in South Carolina and Georgia. To achieve this, we aim to:
- Expand Partnerships: Develop relationships with additional prisons in both states, ensuring that our message of hope is accessible to more individuals.
- Develop Programs: Create and implement programs that cater to the spiritual and personal development needs of inmates, helping them find purpose and peace through faith.
- Train Volunteers: Recruit and train volunteers who are passionate about prison ministry and committed to sharing the message of Jesus with compassion and understanding.
- Measure Impact: Establish methods to measure the impact of our ministry efforts on the lives of those we serve, ensuring continuous improvement and effectiveness.
Invitation for Support
We invite individuals, organizations, and community members who share our vision to join us in this important work. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of those who are often forgotten. Together, we can bring hope and transformation to many, offering a brighter future through faith.
please Help Our Cause and god bless
How You Can Help
Your support enables us to meet our goals and fund our mission.
Donate by Check:
LOWCOUNTRY PRISON MINISTRIES
5710 Ogeechee Road
Suite 200, PO Box 234
Savannah, GA 31405
Online Donation:
Click the DONATE button on our website.
EIN: 33-3379288
budget transparency of your donations for next 3 years. EIN #33-3379288
Our Partners
Our Partnering in Action!
Our Beliefs
LOWCOUNTRY PRISON MINISTRIES is a faith that is centered around the belief in one God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. We believe that through prayer, meditation, and acts of service with
Prison Fellowship, we can connect incarcerated individuals with God and find purpose in their lives.
Our Community
At LOWCOUNTRY PRISON MINISTRIES, we believe in the importance of community and coming together to support one another. We are getting on the air with Hot 2100 Savannah radio station owned and operated by Julius Hall to spread the word of Hope in Jesus.
Listen to Pastor "V" (Pastor Vinny Joy) and
Minister "D" (Minister Derek Francois) Sunday morning show every 1st and
3rd Sunday from 8am to 10am!
Our Outreach
As believers, we are called to serve others and make a positive impact in the world.
At LOWCOUNTRY PRISON MINISTRIES, we are committed to outreach and service projects that includes mentoring youth with our partner
100 Black Men!
Our Heartfelt Thanks!
The Ginn Foundation's profound generosity and compassion extend through their incredible philanthropic efforts. Through Samantha Ginn-Boyd and the Ginn Family Foundation, they not only shape the future with innovation but also change lives with their kindness.
Samantha Ginn-Boyd’s unwavering dedication, time, and heartfelt commitment amplify the foundation’s impact, ensuring that every initiative is driven by genuine care and a vision for a better tomorrow. Her efforts go beyond financial support—she invests in people, offering guidance, encouragement, and a steadfast belief in the power of second chances.
This heartfelt donation to Lowcountry Prison Ministries is more than a gift—it is a beacon of hope, a gesture of faith, and a testament to the power of giving. We are beyond grateful for your unwavering support, and we hold deep appreciation for the impact you make in the hearts and lives of those in need.
With sincere gratitude,
Lowcountry Prison Ministries
Great People do great things
Our community is made up of people from all walks of life, united by a shared faith and a desire to make the world a better place. We believe that everyone has something to offer, and that by working together, we can achieve great things.
Thank you to our home church for supporting our mission.
On behalf of our ministry business, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Alton Carter and Pastor Beth Carter for your unwavering prayers, mentorship, and the incredible outpouring of support you have so generously given to this mission.
Your faith and guidance have been a cornerstone in our journey. Your prayers have strengthened us during challenging moments, and your mentorship has been a light, showing us the path forward with wisdom and love. We are deeply inspired by your dedication and humility, which serve as a testament to the grace and power of God working through you.
Please know that your contributions have made an immeasurable impact on our ministry. Your support has not only empowered us to launch our business with confidence, but it has also inspired us to strive for excellence in serving our community and glorifying His name.
We pray for continued blessings upon you and your ministry as you tirelessly lead and uplift others. Thank you for being such a pivotal part of our journey.
With profound appreciation, Derek and Cathy Francois
.
It's with this spirit of appreciation and joy that we extend a heartfelt invitation to you. Come join us at The Cathedral, located at 275 Berwick Blvd, Savannah, GA 31349. Our church isn't just a place of worship—it's a home where every individual is embraced, every story is valued, and every soul finds a place to belong.
thank you to JOSH AND BETH SIMPSON OUR FAITH PARTNERS
The SIMPSON name is a name of integrity and quality.
"There before the grace of God I go"
Josh Simpson – Founder of Simpson Construction
Josh Simpson, the visionary behind Simpson Construction, is widely recognized for his unwavering integrity, profound humility, and wholehearted dedication to meeting the needs of his clients. With a commitment to excellence both in business and in character, Josh leads by example, creating a standard of care and professionalism that resonates with everyone he works with.
Through my personal experience working alongside Josh, I’ve witnessed his remarkable ability to balance business with compassion. He has taught me the importance of prioritizing care and concern for clients' financial needs, as well as the value of giving back to the community. Josh’s dedication extends beyond construction—he strives to empower others, helping the homeless rediscover self-worth and work toward brighter futures.
Guided by a Christ-centered perspective, Josh views his community through a lens of kindness and service. His deep faith fuels not only his approach to business but also his commitment to making a difference. By investing his heart into both his business and the people it serves, Josh Simpson has established himself as a leader who embodies the true spirit of service and purpose.
A company of Faith and cares about the community
"Let him who is without sin, cast the first stone"
Lowcountry Craftsmen – A Vision of Empowerment
Lowcountry Craftsmen, founded by Josh Simpson, is a business deeply rooted in the spirit of community and collaboration. With a heart for service and a passion for empowering others, Josh started this venture to create opportunities for individuals to succeed and work toward building businesses of their own.
Unlike conventional enterprises, Lowcountry Craftsmen stands as a testament to the belief that success is most meaningful when shared. By providing mentorship, resources, and guidance, the company helps individuals develop their skills and pursue their dreams of entrepreneurship.
At its core, Lowcountry Craftsmen reflects Josh’s commitment to seeing others thrive. It is more than a business—it is a platform for growth, resilience, and transformation, embodying the idea that true success lies in lifting others up along the way.
What is Faith?
What is Faith?
A Testament of Faith and Generosity:
Josh and Beth Simpson
The faith and compassion displayed by Josh and Beth Simpson are truly inspiring. Their deep trust in God is not only a cornerstone of their lives but also shines as a guiding light for others. We are immensely grateful for their generosity, not just in the giving of their time but in the steadfast support and encouragement they offer.
Their belief in our mission of helping incarcerated men and their extraordinary generosity toward Lowcountry Prison Ministries serve as a testament to their commitment to creating meaningful change. Watching their faith in action, both in their lives and in their outreach, motivates and strengthens everyone fortunate enough to witness it. They embody the values of faith, hope, and love in the most tangible and heartfelt way.
Contact Me
Questions or Comments
Send me a message or ask me a question using this form. I will do my best to get back to you soon!
LOWCOUNTRY PRISON MINISTRIES
Derek Francois 206-307-6637 derek@lowcountryprisonministries.org 5710 Ogeechee Road Suite 200, PO Box 234 Savannah, GA 31405 EIN #33-3379288
Hours
Open today | 09:00 am – 05:00 pm |
board members of faith
Derek Francois, President
Embodying Unparalleled Dedication and Versatility
We are thrilled to introduce Derek, a multi-talented professional whose unwavering dedication our Lord Jesus Christ and to our mission is truly extraordinary. With a remarkable background in home remodeling, Derek successfully owned and operated his own business, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence.
Derek's extensive experience as a former Local 1 Union worker has equipped him with hands-on expertise and an unmatched work ethic. His employment as a Superintendent at Savannah Hardscapes further highlights his leadership and project management skills, having overseen numerous large-scale projects with precision and care.
Currently, Derek serves as a devoted board member of Faith, channeling all his time, insights, and commitment into advancing our cause. His profound dedication and relentless effort are evident in every aspect of his involvement, making him an invaluable asset to our organization
Contact Derek:
Mobile: 206-307-6637
Email: Derek@lowcountryprionministries.org derekfrancois10@gmail.com
Joe Barthelmess, CFO,
With over 30 years of experience as a Tax Accountant in Georgia, Joe brings a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to our organization.
Joe's journey of service began long before his accounting career, as he honorably served in the United States Navy. His military background instilled in him a profound sense of duty, discipline, and commitment—values that he carries forward into his professional and philanthropic endeavors. As a retired Navy veteran and a highly respected tax accountant, Joe's contributions to our organization are versatile. His keen financial acumen ensures that our operations are both efficient and transparent, while his leadership and strategic thinking guide us towards sustainable growth.
Beyond his professional achievements, Joe is a deeply dedicated friend to our mission. His passion for our cause and his genuine care for the community resonate in every interaction. Whether he's offering sage advice, lending a helping hand, or simply being a steadfast presence, Joe's impact is felt far and wide.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Joe Barthelmess as part of our team, and we are grateful for his continued support and friendship. His exemplary dedication and service inspire us all to strive for excellence in everything we do.
Contact Joe,
Mobile: (912) 596-1175
Email: joe@kmctaxes.com
James Doyle, Accountability Member
Board Member Spotlight: Celebrating Excellence in Accountability
We're honored to introduce our esteemed Board Member, Jim Doyle whose commitment to accountability sets a gold standard for our organization. With an impressive career spanning 38 years at Bank of America, Jim brings unparalleled expertise and dedication to our mission.
During his tenure as Finance Executive at one of the world's leading financial institutions, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and a keen eye for detail, consistently driving financial excellence and integrity. His deep understanding of financial operations and strategic planning has been instrumental in fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.
As a key member of our Board, Jim leverages his extensive experience to ensure that our financial practices remain robust and trustworthy. His insightful guidance and unwavering commitment to ethical standards play a crucial role in our continuous growth and success.
Contact Jim
Mobile: 704-968-3651
Email: Jdoyle2nd@gmail.com
Cathy Francois, Secretary
Cathy Francois is a seasoned professional with a diverse background. She has previously owned and operated a property management business, demonstrating her entrepreneurial skills and expertise in running a business. With 20 years of experience in the banking industry, Cathy currently continues to excel in her role at a bank, specializing in personal banking needs. Her extensive experience and dedication make her a valuable asset to this mission.
Contact Cathy,
Email: cathy@lowcountryprisonministries.org catmndew@gmail.com
Susanne Bunton, board member
Reverend Susanne Bunton is a licensed minister and is native to Savannah, Georgia. She has lived in Hawaii, South Korea, and Connecticut. Additionally, she has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She has two beautiful children, who take up most of her time. Susanne loves to write all forms of literature and dedicates her services to the kingdom of God.
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heavenly memories
Honoring the lives of two extraordinary women whose unwavering prayers and steadfast belief have shaped the person I am today. My beloved mother, Arthurene Francois-Thompson (September 15, 1942 – May 13, 2019), and my cherished aunt, Sandra Louise Williams (January 9, 1950 – January 11, 2025). Their legacies will endure through this ministry, as they have instilled in me the ability to extend to others the love and support they so generously gave to me.
May they rest in peace.