Palmer Home for Children: Transforming Lives with Compassionate Care

Founded in 1895 as a small orphanage for children in need, Palmer Home for Children has grown into a dynamic, faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping vulnerable children at every stage of their lives. Nearly 127 years later, Palmer Home remains committed to its mission of providing a safe, nurturing environment where children can heal, grow, and thrive.

Located on a 150-acre campus at Panther Creek Ranch, Palmer Home operates a series of cottages where children are cared for by house parents, creating a family atmosphere that helps kids feel at home. In this Christ-centered environment, children receive personalized educational and therapeutic services that support both their academic growth and social-emotional development.

In response to the changing needs of children and families, Palmer Home has expanded its services over the years to offer a more comprehensive range of care options. Today, the organization provides four distinct care settings to meet the individual needs of children at different stages of their lives:

  • Campus Care: Children live on campus in a family-style setting, supported by trustworthy adults who provide consistent care and guidance.
  • Foster Care: Palmer Home partners with certified foster families to ensure children have the support and stability they need to heal and grow.
  • Family Care: Infants of incarcerated mothers are given nurturing care with the goal of reunification. The program also provides support for mothers upon their release.
  • Transitional Care: Young adults receive guidance on education, careers, and life skills to help them transition to independent living.

A key part of Palmer Home’s mission is the Dr. Hugh Francis, Jr. Wellness Center, a 25,000-square-foot facility that houses classrooms, therapy rooms, counseling suites, and recreational areas. This space is integral to Palmer Home’s Whole Child Initiative, which focuses on a holistic, trauma-informed approach to care. The initiative aims to help children overcome past trauma and thrive in all aspects of life—home, school, and community.

The Whole Child Initiative is built on four core principles:

  • Whole Story: Understanding each child’s full background to provide comprehensive care.
  • Whole Child: Focusing on the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of each child.
  • Whole Team: A collaborative approach involving caregivers, staff, and community partners.
  • Whole Caregiver: Supporting the emotional and spiritual well-being of caregivers, ensuring they are equipped to provide the best care possible.

Palmer Home is a donor-funded organization and does not receive any state or federal funding. It relies entirely on the generosity of individuals, corporations, and organizations to continue its mission of helping children heal, families reunite, and young adults prepare for their futures. Whether through monthly contributions or one-time gifts, every donation makes a difference in the lives of children who are building a brighter future.

This holiday season, consider giving the gift of hope by supporting Palmer Home for Children. When you make a donation, your loved one will receive a special holiday card from Palmer Home, thanking them for their gift in their name.

To learn more about Palmer Home for Children or to make a donation, visit palmerhome.org.