Page 70 - Senior Link Magazine Summer 2026 - Online Magazine

OPPORTUNITY
TO Serve

Malta Farms

A Brotherhood of Hope

by Jane Bromley

2025 Annual Camping Trip
Cadon, Keagon, Chadd, Rylon, Brandi, Kolton, and Reagon Everett
(Wheeler Peak, NM)

nce upon a time, 276 men In 2001, Kent and Becky Forester as operations manager and teacher,
on a ship endured a long acted on a vision for a place of but the talented musician also leads
Oterrifying storm at sea. restoration for men who had lost the men in connecting with God
Their outcome was uncertain and hope due to addiction, incarceration, through worship. For over 25 years,
likely catastrophic, even fatal. failure, or worse. In 2008, they the program has restored hope and
Miraculously, every man survived turned over the reins to Chadd and offered security through generous
when the ship broke apart on the Brandi Everett, who moved to the hospitality, consistent discipleship,
shores of the little island of Malta Farm with their four young sons, and faithful support.
in the Mediterranean. The islanders aged 11, 7, 5, and 2. Two more boys
were hospitable, welcoming the were born soon after. Chadd had The dedicated staff is committed to
traumatized men and caring for already been volunteering with Kent helping each resident successfully
them for months until they were able for a couple of years, and he knew navigate the 12-month process of
to continue on to their destination. A he could offer hope to young men restoration and transformation. In
gripping account of their harrowing because he had walked a little while the classroom and in community,
journey is found in the Book of Acts, in their shoes. He loves and leads men learn to let go of the past,
chapters 27 and 28. It’s worth the with a servant’s heart and earns unlearn their skewed worldviews,
read. the respect of the men by fostering and embrace their true identities.
an atmosphere of acceptance and The classes are designed to teach
Lubbock County has its own little hope. And, as the mother of six sons, principles like self-acceptance,
island of refuge, known as Malta Brandi has earned her own badge responsibility, and forgiveness. The
Farms—83 acres just north of Slaton. of respect among the residents and men discover they are valuable and
The men who find themselves there alumni. (In 2016, the Everetts lost unique creations and are encouraged
have endured years of trauma and their eldest son Brendon in a tragic to encounter the God who loves
fearful seasons of life. But, despite accident. He was 20.) them.
their history, they find relief, respite,
even rescue. Most of them inevitably Jim and Brandy Helms joined the During the first six months,
use the word “miraculous.” team in 2020. Jim not only serves discipleship is emphasized, and
morning classes are required five

70 Lubbock Senior Link