Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many children live at The Children’s Home?

A: There are no longer children living at The Children’s Home. Our residential services were discontinued in 1998, allowing children and their families to receive services in their homes, schools and in community settings.

Q: Is The Children’s Home an orphanage?

A: No, although we did originate as an orphanage with the mission of caring for the poor and abandoned children of Cincinnati. Throughout our 140-year history, our programs and services have evolved to consistently meet the changing needs of our community. Our current function reflects the needs of today’s children and their families.

Q: If no children live there, why are you called The Children’s Home?

A: Our name continues to reflect our beginnings as a home for children in need. The word “home” now refers to our current position as the home of quality services for children and their families. Today, our focus is on providing services that allow children to live and thrive in their own home environments.

Q: What is The Children’s Home today?

A: Founded in 1864, The Children’s Home is a private, non-profit agency that changes the lives of children and families through services in four specific areas: Adoption, Early Childhood, Education and Mental Health. These services support children awaiting families through adoption, nurture families with young children, educate children needing special attention to reach their academic goals, and treat children and adolescents with complex mental health needs.

Q: What population do you serve?

A: We provide programs and services for children of all ages and their families in the Greater Cincinnati area. Some of these programs are designed to meet specific needs or populations, while others are available to any child or family. We serve children and families from all walks of life, focusing primarily on those who are “at risk” or who lack necessary resources.

Q: How are these families referred to you?

A: Children and families are often referred to us by schools, physicians, and other social service agencies. Others are referred by those who have benefited from our services in the past. And, sometimes families enroll in programs and services on their own.

Q: How is The Children’s Home funded?

A: We are funded through a combination of program fees, government and granted funds, donations, and investment revenue.

Q: How can I help The Children’s Home?

A: There are many opportunities available to support The Children’s Home and its mission. We appreciate and welcome both cash and in-kind contributions. Opportunities also exist through planned giving, charitable bequests, charitable gift annuities, life insurance benefits and named endowment funds.

The Children’s Home also benefits from introductions to individuals, companies or other sources interested in supporting services to children and families. If you would like to discuss any giving opportunity, simply e-mail the Development Director or call The Department at (513) 272-2800.