Charlie was born in 1964 to a family who left him at the hospital because they believed that he was cursed. After spending his first few weeks of life there, his 72 year old great aunt agreed to take him, but because she was a severe alcoholic who could not properly care for him, Charlie only received meals and baths at school. At the age of 9, DFACS stepped in after learning that Charlie had been kept in a dog kennel on the porch. He remained in foster care until he aged out in 1983.
Hickory Log welcomed Charlie in 1983 when he had nowhere else to go. The love and support he has experienced from his Hickory Log family and the Bartow County community has completely transformed his personality. His best friend “Tee” came to Hickory Log in 1998 and is like a brother to him. Charlie is often referred to as “Smiley” because of his infectious smile and is a treasured member of the Hickory Log family.
Soon to celebrate its 50th anniversary, Hickory Log has relied heavily on the continued support of the United Way of Bartow County. The home receives no government funding and the men are unable to pay the amount that it costs for their daily living expenses. Thanks to the United Way of Bartow County, Charlie and the 22 other residents now sleep in peace every night, with the comfort of knowing that they have stable home with a family who loves them.
