Ministry Unit Construction

How do we do it?

We are often asked, "How do you convert a used bus into something useful like a mobile ministry unit?" Believe us when we tell you, we ask ourselves the same question sometimes. We are able to do what we do because of God's divine inspiration (99%) and good old fashion perspiration (1%) -- although Tom and Mat will probably argue those percentages.

Let's face it, there is nothing beautiful or attractive about a big yellow bus. Afterall, buses are typically retired for a reason, right? ... and if that bus had even the slightest bit of life left, it would still be transporting children to and from school and carrying the band and football team to its away games. Fortunately for BUSES International, a school system does not always see the hidden potential of a bus that has already "served its useful purpose". This is when BUSES International can come in, give that bus a new lease on life and turn it into something useful (and perhaps even something beautiful) again.

While BUSES International donates its time, materials and resources to each project, we also ask the ministry or organization receiving the unit to assist in raising the necessary funds. This not only confirms the committment to the project, but also helps us with our costs. We work very closely with the recipient to plan and engineer a unit that will satisfy their needs and stay within the agreed-upon budget.

So, how do we do it?

Well, it all starts with a used bus. It may not look like much right now, but ...

Then we clear out the inside and remove all of the seats ...

A bus is basically a big box on wheels and with the seats out of the way, we have a blank slate on which to work. We can put anything inside that empty space we want (assuming the "anything" will fit). In some cases though, an item that will not fit through the door just gives Tom an excuse to break out the cutting torch and make a new door that *is* big enough.

Next, we begin acquiring the necessary materials and supplies and start assembly. Much of the equipment we utilize in our mobile medical ministry units is donated from doctor's offices or other medical facilities. It may not be the latest and greatest in terms of technology, but it is still in good working order and perfect for our needs.

Because each unit is designed to serve a unique purpose, we custom-build each unit in our Lorain, Ohio facility. From the simple to the complex, we do it all, including welding, electrical, plumbing, wood-working / carpentry, fabrication, sanding and painting and much, much more! We also do a mechanical inspection of each unit to ensure it is safe to operate and that all systems are functioning properly.

The finished product!


The completed unit pictured above is a street ministry unit currently operating in Toledo, Ohio. More information about some of our completed units can be found on the completed projects page.