ARLINGTON, Texas—Mission Arlington is a faith-based charity dedicated to meeting all the needs of the Arlington community.
Executive Director Tillie Burgins said she was inspired after doing faith-based missions in South Korea for 10 years. She came back to her hometown in Arlington and figured that if missions were possible in Korea, then they should also be possible here. After seven years of prayer, Burgins launched Mission Arlington as a Bible study in the home of a woman she had met.
Today, Mission Arlington provides people with necessities such as food and clothing. It also offers dental and medical services to those in need of them. The organization was founded with the physical, emotional, spiritual and education needs of the community in mind.
Burgins said these needs are like the wheels of a car, where all four wheels are needed for the car to function. She said they will always try to make sure that people leave Mission Arlington with a solution to whatever problem they may be facing.
As the mission expanded into more locations, its roots remained unchanged. Staff and volunteers continued to focus on building relationships with people, making sure they knew they were loved.
“I had a man in here the other day,” Burgins said. “He said, ‘Do you think God loves me?’ Yes, God loves you.”
Additionally, the staff provide individualized support for everyone who needs it. The organization is open every day of the year. Burgins said they will always try to be open regardless of the circumstances. Even throughout the coronavirus pandemic, Mission Arlington remained open despite widespread closures and restrictions.
Mission Arlington also hosts several events throughout the year, including celebrations for Easter, Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. For example, during the Christmas season, families receive gifts, while school supplies are distributed before the academic year begins.
The organization emphasizes community involvement, with many individuals who have received assistance later contributing as volunteers. This cycle of support strengthens the mission’s impact and broadens its reach. Burgins said some children who received dental care at Mission Arlington later went on to become dentists and gave back in the same way. Others who have benefited from Mission Arlington’s educational programs have pursued careers in teaching, social work and healthcare, returning to the organization to mentor or assist new generations.
Mission Arlington remains open daily, providing continuous assistance to those who seek help. Through its services and events, the organization continues to support the growing Arlington community. Whether someone needs a meal, a prayer, a place to stay or simply a listening ear, Mission Arlington seeks to provide hope and guidance.
Burgins said that God is what made this possible for her. Her foundations with God are strong, and she said that is what continues to allow her to help her community. She said that she hopes to help children in the same way God has helped her.
