Poverty, discrimination, war or natural disaster are all factors that can cause children to become separated from their families. For many desperate parents seeking help, their only option is to put their child in an orphanage or other institution.
The Problem
Children belong in families,not orphanages
For many families, the only option is to put their child in an institution or orphanage
With support, most families could care for their children. And children without families could be looked after in family-style environments, or community-based services, where they can be provided with the care to meet their needs.
The Problem
The problem with orphanages and other institutions
An estimated 8 million children live in orphanages and other institutions around the world. More than 80 years of research proves that this environment harms their development.
Why are children in orphanages and other institutions?
Perhaps surprisingly, most children in orphanages and other institutions have families who love and want them, but they are born into poverty, or with a disability, in a place where families have little or no support.
Defining an 'institution' or 'orphanage'
There are numerous definitions of what the term 'institution' or 'orphanage' means when referring to children. A clear distinction is needed between an institution and high-quality residential care.
It Is a Global Problem
80 years
of research proves that orphanages severely harm children.
8 million
children and young people live in institutions worldwide.
80%
of children in orphanages have a living parent.