The House of the Good Shepherd

The House of the Good Shepherd is a US nonprofit organization dedicated to providing treatment, education, and support programs for children and families. Established in response to the growing need for orphan care in the post-Civil War period in Central New York, the organization has evolved significantly since its inception.

History

The House of the Good Shepherd was founded on February 8, 1872, by members of the Trinity Episcopal Church, including Charlotte Beckwith Crouse, Laura Beckwith Hutchinson, Mrs. James Watson Williams, and Mary Wetmore. Initially, the organization aimed to provide a home for "the friendless, neglected, and destitute children" in the community. It began with care for seven children at a rented house and later expanded to larger facilities, including a significant three-story structure donated by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Proctor[1].

Programs and Services

Today, the House of the Good Shepherd offers a wide range of programs and services. These include:

• Foster Care: Providing exceptional foster care through a network of dedicated foster parents.
• Residential Services: Offering safe and therapeutic environments for children and adolescents.
• Tilton School: Specializing in small classroom ratios and personalized education for students.
• Families Forward: An intensive home-based program aimed at reducing out-of-home placement for at-risk youth and families.
• Health Homes: A coordinated care model ensuring comprehensive support for children's health needs[3].

Expansion and Development

Over the years, the organization has expanded its services to meet the evolving needs of the community. This includes the establishment of a Therapeutic Foster Care Program in Watertown, NY, and enhancements to its facilities such as the Milton Abelove Children's Center and the Schafer Residence. The House of the Good Shepherd is recognized for its Sanctuary Certification, emphasizing its commitment to trauma-responsive care[1].

Community Engagement

The organization is supported by a strong network of philanthropists and community partners, highlighting its impact and importance within the local community. It continues to evolve and adapt, addressing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic while maintaining its mission to provide uninterrupted care to children and families[1].

[1] https://www.hgs-utica.com/about/history/ [2] https://www.hgschicago.org [3] https://www.hgs-utica.com [4] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/the-house-of-the-good-shepherd-foundation,223692108/ [5] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/221500539