Amid growing awareness of the challenges faced by children in institutional care, the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) is urging a shift towards family-based care systems. The alliance believes alternative care options such as foster care, adoption, and family reunification offer more supportive environments for vulnerable children.
Released on June 1, the WEA’s statement emphasizes the unique role of the global Church in reforming child welfare systems. Developed with partners like World Without Orphans and the Global Children’s Forum, the statement argues against viewing orphanages as permanent solutions for children in need.
Research highlighted by the WEA indicates that children in institutions face increased risks of developmental and emotional challenges compared to those in family settings. The alliance asserts that the stability and belonging offered by families are crucial for children’s growth.
The statement declares, “God created families as the natural and nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive… Children need consistent caregivers who know them by name, who walk with them through life’s joys and challenges, and who reflect the love of our heavenly Father.”
Family-based care is seen as providing children with a deeper sense of belonging and identity, essential for their overall well-being. The WEA also notes that many children in orphanages are not truly orphaned but are there due to poverty or temporary family crises.
To address these issues, the alliance calls for investment in family strengthening and community services to prevent unnecessary separations. This aligns with concerns expressed by child welfare advocates about the impact of orphanage-based care.
In the UK, Christian charity Home for Good has previously advised against volunteering in orphanages, citing potential trauma and attachment issues exacerbated by short-term volunteer interactions.
The charity has highlighted that many children in orphanages have living parents and are often separated due to economic hardship. They advocate for support systems that keep families intact.
The WEA echoes these sentiments, advocating for church resources to support family preservation over institutional care, which they describe as more “effective,” “responsible,” and “sustainable.”
While acknowledging that some residential care may be necessary in emergencies or for short-term respite, the alliance insists these should be temporary, leading to family reunification or permanent placements.
Churches are encouraged to engage in guiding families through difficult times, promoting adoption and foster care, and collaborating with local child protection agencies. Congregations are also urged to review their ministries and support policies prioritizing family-based care.
The WEA recognizes that transitioning from institutional care to family-based systems requires cooperation among churches, charities, and governments. Despite the challenges, they stress that these efforts are vital for giving every child the chance to “grow up in a safe and loving family.”
The statement concludes with a call to action for Christians: “As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect God’s heart for the orphan (James 1:27), to act justly and defend the vulnerable (Isaiah 1:17), and to embody God’s love in practical and transformative ways. We believe the Church has a unique and critical role to play in transforming how society cares for children.
“Together, let us reimagine care for children—not through the lens of institutions, but through the life-giving promise of safe and loving families.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
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