A small church with a big idea is seeking the community’s help in getting a couple of dozen young people to Florida this summer.

Faith, Hope and Love Ministries is trying to broaden the horizons of the children in its youth department, youth director Tyrell Lowther said.

“Some of the kids have never been outside of Suffolk,” he said, noting some of the youth come from low-income families. “We just want to ensure the kids have something positive.”

Last year, the children went on a retreat in Williamsburg, and leaders saw positive effects on the youth, Lowther said.

“We had many positive results,” Lowther said. Some youth decided they want to go to college, and they all learned more about what it means to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

“It shocked me to know a lot of them went to church, but some said, ‘I heard the pastor talk about it, but I don’t really know what it means,’” Lowther said.

“I really believe it changed a lot of the children’s lives,” said Shanay Edmonds, fundraising director at the church. “It’s developing their character.”

The trip, set for Aug. 5-9, will include visits to Disney World, the Holy Land Experience and Orlando shopping malls. It’s planned to include some fun with Disney World and some learning at the Holy Land Experience, Edmonds said.

“This helps them understand everything Jesus went through when He died for us,” she said. “We’re trying to plant seeds and water them.”

The church’s youth have done fundraisers such as doughnut sales, but they are looking for some extra help. They’re asking community members to give $20. Every 18 people who do so can sponsor one young person to go on the trip.

To help out, call Edmonds at 867-3914.