A Loving Family for Every Child: A Paradigm Shift from Institutional Care to Family-Based Care

Tyagi Richa - Institutionalised Children Explorations and Beyond

Abstract
 

The article is set in the backdrop of the continuum of alternative care, more aptly put as family-based care for children in need of care and protection. It begins by taking into account the emerging trends in deinstitutionalisation and alternative care avenues nationally and internationally. The earlier article published in this journal in March 2016 brought to light Miracle Foundation's Method as a way of transforming institutions into loving children's homes that provide family-like care for children in need of care and protection.

This article traces the journey of the organisation further, where Miracle Foundation's work on childcare has evolved as a methodology rooted in all family-based care options of resettlement of children, adoption, foster care, sponsorship, family strengthening and geared towards providing a safe and loving family for every child.

The article elucidates on the preparatory phase undertaken by the organisation prior to the onset of family-based care program. Further describes the steps taken and initiatives rolled out. As the programs progress, a detailed purview of the outcomes, learning and lessons learnt will be taken up in a subsequent research article.