FLORENCE, S.C. (WPDE) - The children's ministry at Mill Branch A.M.E. Church in Pamplico donated $156.12 to the House of Hope in Florence.

House of Hope of the Pee Dee is a Christian ministry that's dedicated to providing a safe place to stay for the homeless.

In 2010, the organization helped more than 200 men, women and children.

The children collected the money through a coin drive at the church throughout the month of October.

"We have implemented children's ministry four years ago. It was implemented at Mill Branch under the leadership of Dr. Larry Harris. And we have each year chosen a project the children feel that they want to be a part of. And so this year the children decided that they wanted to visit the shelter," said Mona Lisa Andrews.

The church's pastor says he wants his youth to understand how privileged they are and to have compassion for those who have fallen on hard times.

"Coming to the shelter will give them an array of life isn't always the way it seems. And there is another side to life. And I think in that regards they're able to appreciate what they have," explained Dr. Larry L. Harris.

Many of the children say visiting House of Hope has made an impact on their lives.

"They're just like us but they need help. So I'm glad I came today and I want to learn more about how they live," said Lizzie Singletary.

The children also provided a pizza party with plenty of drinks for the residents.

Shelter officials say it warmed their hearts to that the children of Mill Branch AM.E. Church thought of them.

Are you social? We are! Don't forget to find us on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newschannel15

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CarolinaLive

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/wpdenewschannel15

You can get more updates from Tonya Brown on Twitter.