In the 1850's, there were an estimated 30,000 children who were either homeless or neglected, living in the streets of New York City. The children ranged in age from about six to 18 and had little hope towards their future. Charles Loring Brace, a minister and the founder of The Children's Aid Society, felt that there must be a way to provide a home and future to these children. He had a dream of removing these children from the slums and harsh poverty they faced, and placing them in homes across the country, where he thought they would be given opportunities and hope. These children were sent by train to live and work on farms out west. They would live in homes for free but they would work on the farm and help with chores. Older children placed by The Children's Aid Society were to be paid for their labors. The Orphan Train Movement lasted from 1853 to the early 1900s with more than 120,000 children being placed. Although this was an unusual and even controversial plan of action, it has been now recognized as the beginning of the foster care concept in the United States.
The Orphan Trains stopped at more than 45 states across the country as well as Canada and Mexico. There were numerous agencies nationwide that placed children on trains to go to foster homes. The Orphan Train Movement and the success of other Children's Aid initiatives started various programs of child welfare reforms, including child labor laws, adoption and the establishment of foster care services, public education, the provision of health care and nutrition and vocational training.
“Children are the world's most valuable resource and its best hope for the future”
~John Fitzgerald Kennedy
Reminds me of the children's story, The Little Red Caboose. As the train was going uphill and struggling to reach its goal, it could be heard saying "I think I can, I think I can," faster and faster until it was a reality.
ReplyDeleteCaring for children is the future of all societies. They need loving homes that provide a nurturing environment, guidance, love, encouragement and courage. So much can be done for our society by just providing a solid foundation for all of our children. I look forward to participating in Baby 'D's life with open arms and open heart.