Whether directly providing care in our own communities or partnering with groups overseas, 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.

Produced by the Faith to Action Initiative with support from the Better Care Network, this three-part series summarizes key research and global findings for faith-based donors and practitioners seeking to root their actions in evidence based-practice. The series provides a strong framework for understanding the importance of family care, the limitations of institutional care, and the range of options for children who have been separated from parental care.

Children, Orphanages, and Families: A Summary of Research to Help Guide Faith-Based Action Provides an overview of a range of studies and findings that can inform approaches to caring for children who have been separated from parental care. Summarizes key overall findings, while also providing examples within specific countries or regions; evidence demonstrating the importance of family care; research on the limitations of orphanages; and an overview of family-based care and strategies to strengthen families.

Key Research on Orphanages and Family Care: An Annotated Bibliography Provides 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 Provides an overview of a range of alternative care options for children who have been separated from parental care, placing 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.

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