Family-based care means children grow up in safe, loving families. Sometimes that means reuniting with their biological relatives, and other times it means being placed with a trusted caregiver. Our goal is for every child to belong, to be known, and to grow up in a home rather than in an institution.

On average, 80% of children living in institutions or on the streets have families they can safely return to. A key part of our work is reconnecting and strengthening these family relationships whenever it is possible and safe to do so.

Source: Williamson, J., and Greenburg, A. (2010). Families, Not Orphanages

Ensuring safety and well-being is our top priority. Before reunification, our team carefully assesses each home to confirm it provides a nurturing and secure environment. We also prepare both the family and child for the transition and continue to offer support after reunification to help the family thrive together.

If reunification isn’t possible and all family options have been explored, we refer the child to trusted organizations or to the government for foster care. We also work with families in our network who are willing to foster children without expecting financial support. These families receive guidance, assessments, and certification. If they choose to adopt later, they can go through the required government training and evaluations, since adoption can only be facilitated by the government.

There are many reasons why children find themselves living apart from their families. Sometimes it’s due to poverty or difficult circumstances that make caring for a child challenging. Other times, children run away seeking safety, freedom, or a better life. Our work is about understanding each child’s story and supporting families and children to rebuild safe, loving homes whenever possible.