The Angelus was founded in 1979 in St. Petersburg, Florida. Within a few short months, The Angelus became “home” for eight children, ranging in age from 2 to 12 years. The home was supported by State Funding, but the founders continued to work at night to supplement the income.
The Angelus then became a non-profit organization so they could begin to accept charitable gifts. The community responded with financial as well as volunteer help. A search for land began. Seventeen acres of beautiful wooded land was obtained in Pasco County which included a small two bedroom house. The first Angelus country home was completed in 1986 and in 1987 the second home was built by volunteers to accommodate all the children in St. Petersburg. Once reunited, The Angelus continued to grow.
A swimming pool was donated by two concerned men in the community, another home was built by a handicapped friend in 1996 and Charlie’s Lodge was built in 1999 by 600 volunteers to honor their good friend, Charlie Daniels. Lastly, the pavilion was built in 2001 and is used by many groups in the community for social events as well as fundraisers for The Angelus.

The Angelus now has 5 group homes with the ability to serve 39 individuals. The adult day program has grown with the capabilities of serving 45 persons. They have the space, the buildings, and the personnel to serve individuals require total care, but their hands are tied by lack of funding. Over the years numerous budget cuts are making it almost impossible for them to provide all the services they are capable of.
Many people are waiting to be included in the government Medicaid Waiver system, but the wait is often 5 years long!! Presently, the funding provides 76% of The Angelus’ costs leaving the remaining 24% as donations, bequests and gifts from friends. With the continued help of the community, the goals and philosophy of The Angelus will be maintained and the quality of life for the people who cannot help themselves will be assured.