From Faith to Action Research Series

Evidence supporting the importance of family care for vulnerable children

This three-part research series highlights key research and global evidence supporting the importance of family care for orphans and vulnerable children. The series covers research on the limitations of orphanages, an overview of the range of options for orphans and vulnerable children separated from parental care, and draws on leading resources to help guide and inform practice. Read More

Children, Orphanages, and Families: A Summary of Research to Help Guide Faith-Based Action
This Summary of Research by the Faith to Action Initiative is offered to churches, faith-based organizations, and individuals of faith seeking evidence-based information about the best ways to care for orphans and children separated from parental care. Whether directly providing care in our own communities or partnering with groups overseas to support orphan care ministries and programs, Christians around the world are rising to the Biblical call to respond to the needs of the orphaned and vulnerable. Globally, the need is great and there is no “one right answer” for every situation. There is, however, a growing body of research and evidence-based “lessons learned” to help guide this faith-inspired work.

Key Research on Orphanages and Family Care: An Annotated Bibliography
Key Research on Orphanages and Family Care: An Annotated Bibliography is a working bibliography of key research and evidence-based policy papers on the care of orphans and other vulnerable children separated from parental care.

A Continuum of Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children
A Continuum of Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children provides an overview of a range of alternative care options for children who have been separated from parental care. In keeping with research and evidence-based guidance on the importance of family in the life of a child, the continuum places a high priority on family care while also recognizing the role that temporary residential care and small group homes can play in the spectrum of options to meet individual situations and needs. This resource highlights:

  • The importance of family-strengthening to prevent separation and to help ensure successful reunification or transition into reliable alternative family care when separation has occurred.
  • The critical role of gatekeeping in order to assess the best care options on an individual basis and to reduce unnecessary placement in orphanages.
  • The multiple pathways that, with appropriate support, can bring a child back into family care.

The Faith to Action Initiative provides free and downloadable resources and study guide materials for churches, faith-based organizations, and individuals seeking to respond to the needs of orphans and vulnerable children: http://faithtoaction.org/resources/ 

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