Our Story

Founded in 1984 as a shelter for women and children in crisis, Potter's Clay has played a vital role in the community of Hot Springs and the surrounding areas for decades.  The story includes many thousands of women that have come and gone over the years that have  received assistance or been housed for a few hours or a few years receiving help.

The Brakebill family has directed the ministry for three generations. Elizabeth and David Brakebill, followed by Mike and Diana Brakebill, and now Chris and Patience Brakebill. Each generation had a vital role in helping this community.

Elizabeth and David Brakebill

David and Elizabeth Brakebill directed the ministry for 30 years and were a light to so many women and children that came for help. Elizabeth also toured the state of Arkansas as a speaker to many women's events and prayer meetings.

Pastor Mike and Diana Brakebill

Pastor Mike and Diana Brakebill's total time worked at the ministry was 30 years. Prior to their time as directors from 2015-2022, they worked as Assistant Directors and office personnel. Pastor Mike still pastors The Gap Church where the women and children call home most Sundays and teaches a class in the rehabilitation program

Chris and Patience Brakebill

Chris and Patience serve at current Executive Directors. Patience has become the leader to the next generation of changed women after beginning her ministry career in 2012! Chris has spent his whole life around Potter's Clay and The Gap Church and is the Praise and Worship Leader and leads the overall direction of the ministry.

Out of the Ashes...

The shelter was lost to fire in 1999 and the community came together to build a new shelter, added three houses for transition houses, and a new thrift store.