Our Story

OUR MISSION

Transforming the lives of women who have suffered from addiction, poverty, and destructive lifestyles, Grace House offers a program that provides hope, restoration, and lasting recovery. We provide a safe, supportive environment—both physically and spiritually—where women can grow in their faith and experience transformation through the power of God.

The History of Grace House San Antonio

OUR VISION

OUR BEGINNING

OUR IMPACT

For over two decades, Jacqueline and Billy Thornton dedicated their time and energy to teaching Bible studies at the Bexar County Adult Detention Center. During this time, they witnessed countless women embrace faith and make life-changing decisions while incarcerated. Each one left jail with newfound hope, determined to start fresh for themselves and their families. However, within a few short months, many of these women were re incarcerated, struggling to understand what went wrong. Jacqueline and Billy soon realized that while these women left jail with new faith, they often returned to old habits, familiar neighborhoods, and destructive relationships, which led to their setbacks.

Billy and Jacqueline Thornton, The Founders

events. All of these services are provided at no cost to the women or their families. Impact and Success Over the years, more than 400 women have walked through the doors of Grace House seeking a better life. What they have found is a community built on unconditional love and the hope for a brighter future. Recovery is a process, which is why Grace House offers a comprehensive nine-month program. With a capacity of only 12 women at a time, the program ensures that each resident receives the full support and resources available, creating an environment where individuals can thrive.

This realization became a turning point. Jacqueline began to search for resources that could help women leaving incarceration and struggling with addiction. Unfortunately, she found that help was scarce. One day, as Jacqueline voiced her frustration in prayer, she felt a powerful calling in her heart—a vision for Grace House was born.

The Miraculous Beginning
What followed was nothing short of miraculous. Through much prayer and hard work, Grace House was granted its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in May 2002. Soon after, the first Grace House opened in a residential setting, providing a safe and supportive environment for women in need. Offering 24/7 supervision, food, clothing, and life-changing teaching was no easy task, but the residents began to thrive in the protected, nurturing environment.

In 2007, Baptist Child and Family Services offered Grace House property to lease on their compound near Lackland Air Force Base. Plans were made for a 7,000 square foot building, and much of the construction was completed through the hard work of volunteers who were passionate about

the mission. Thanks to the dedication of individuals, businesses, and volunteers, the project not only resulted in a functional facility but also a beautiful, comfortable home for all the residents.

A Community of Volunteers
Volunteers continue to play a vital role in the Grace House program. Today, highly qualified teachers lead an average of 8-10 life application and addiction recovery classes each week. These classes cover topics such as addiction recovery, trauma recovery, boundaries, money management, communication, nutrition and fitness, job readiness, skills for living, individualized exit plans, Bible studies, and prayer. Grace House works closely with the courts, probation, and parole officers to ensure that residents fulfill their legal obligations while staying on track in their recovery journey.

The program also emphasizes structured living, which includes cooking, cleaning, attending church services, and participating in special

This format has proven to be successful, with 82% of graduates never being re-incarcerated. By combining a Godly foundation with practical life skills, Grace House has equipped its graduates to lead productive, peaceful lives. Many have gone on to graduate from college, obtain master’s degrees, or learn a trade. Most importantly, they have built stable families and live lives free from the chaos of addiction.

Recognition and Support
Grace House has earned special recognition over the years for its significant impact. State Representative Ina Minjarez of District 152, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, and Former Governor Rick Perry have all extended their support. Numerous churches across San Antonio, as well as local businesses, nonprofits, and individuals, also endorse and support the mission of Grace House.

Through the power of faith, community, and determination, Grace House continues to provide hope, healing, and a new beginning to women seeking a better life.

GRACE HOUSE SAN ANTONIO