In 1979, out of deep concern for their son, Mark, Jobina and Pete Bruinsma began to consider the possibility of starting a Christian agency for adult men and women with developmental disabilities. They knew other parents who were concerned for their children, too. These parents were Marie and Bob Pieters and Gail and Bob Otto. Together, with friend Jim Chambery, they set out on their mission to establish quality residential services, based on Christian values, for people with special needs in Rochester, New York.

Their dream began when they held their first meeting at the Bruinsma’s home. Although they knew what was needed, they didn't know quite how to begin. It wasn't until January 1980, after Bob Pieters visited Salem Christian Home in Ontario, California - an agency they felt they could use as their model - that they began to move more quickly. By December 1980, the agency had become incorporated as Heritage Christian Home and a nine-member Board of Directors was elected. But many hurdles had yet to be overcome. What about funding? What about land?

The Lord truly provided these answers and more with every step they took. They applied for an initial grant, which secured seed money for their first home. Churches were also contacted for donations to aid with this unique ministry. Not only did they send donations, which were gratefully accepted, but they also lent support with their prayers. The Board truly felt God’s presence in their work and they continually asked for His help for direction and support. It was an answered prayer that led to the acquisition of the land that their first home is built on. The congregation of the church next to the home, the United Church of Christ, donated this beautiful parcel of land to the fledgling agency to fulfill an outreach ministry.

That first home, located on Jennifer Lane in Webster, New York, opened its doors on June 24, 1984. Over the years many more homes were opened, including a first home in the Buffalo, New York, area in 1999. New avenues for service and new opportunities continued to be imagined, funded, and implemented.

In October 2003, Heritage Christian Home changed its name to Heritage Christian Services, Inc., to more accurately reflect the range of programs now offered. Even though the agency's growth has brought new challenges, the focus, vision and philosophy of the agency has remained unchanged. We thank God for allowing us to exceed our initial expectations and to continue to open new doors for service.