Surely, you’ve heard Charleston’s history is etched in every cobblestone. But have you heard of the selfless Reverend Daniel Jenkins? We are standing before a place that echoes his extraordinary compassion. This is the story of Daniel Jenkins Homes.
In December 1891, Reverend Daniel Jenkins encountered four young, homeless African American boys. It was a frigid evening. These children were abandoned and alone. Segregation was rife. There was nowhere for them to go. Jenkins took them into his own home.
Daniel Jenkins had been born into slavery. He understood hardship. He believed this meeting wasn’t random. He felt chosen for a higher purpose. His mission was to help unwanted Black children.
Jenkins met with the mayor and city council. He requested a place to house these children. The city provided space and $100. Thus began Jenkins Orphanage.
The first location was on King Street. Jenkins’s church members helped organize the Orphan Aid Society. It incorporated in July 1892. Later, the organization moved to Franklin Street.
Jenkins sought to help children in trouble with the law. He understood their desperation to survive. He asked judges to place these children in his care. At one time, he cared for over 360 children. Locals called him the “Orphanage Man”.
Jenkins hired teachers to teach the children trades. This would equip them for work later in life.
To support the home, Jenkins created the Jenkins Orphanage Band. He used his musical talents. The band included orphan kids. They played on Charleston’s streets. They toured the United States and Europe. This band supported the Orphan home.
The band incorporated African-American music. They paid tribute to Black artists. They became popular. They played on street corners, in churches, and nightclubs.
One endearing ritual involved the band’s return from tours. They would stop blocks away. Then they would march triumphantly to the orphanage. White children would follow.
The band eventually faded. Children began focusing on school. However, its legacy lives on. Jenkins Youth and Family Village continues to impact the community.
Over time, Jenkins’s institution evolved. The orphanage became a group home. It housed children facing abuse, neglect or abandonment. Today, it primarily serves girls aged 11 to 21.
Jenkins provides programs for the people in their care. There are after-school tutoring programs. There are educational programs. They prepare students to be successful.
Jenkins Youth and Family Village has seen success. Many girls have gone to college. Others have found employment. The organization provides scholarships and financial aid.
The community has always been involved with Jenkins. Children’s friends visit. The organization hosts community activities. This support helps maintain its programs.
Today, Jenkins partners with community organizations. They offer additional programs. They maintain parent involvement. Jenkins aims to help people become good citizens.
They prepare resumes and conduct mock interviews. They take the girls on college tours. They partner with groups. This helps girls shadow people on the job.
Jenkins Youth and Family Village is evolving. It is now doing business as Jenkins Youth and Family Village. Its goal remains the same. It wants to help children and families. The dream is to expand the offering.
Reverend Daniel Jenkins left an enduring legacy. His kindness created a haven. Jenkins Youth and Family Village continues his mission. It offers hope and opportunity.