ABOUT
Continuum of Care
The challenges facing children and families exist on a spectrum. Our programs are built to help empower families at every point along the way.
THE PROBLEM WE’RE SOLVING
Children and families need different kinds of help at different times
Lydia Home is a Christian, nonprofit organization serving children and families across Chicagoland. We believe every child deserves safety, stability, and love and that families, given the right support, are the best place for children to grow.
Our work spans prevention, intervention, and aftercare meeting families wherever they are and walking with them toward healing and wholeness.
Founded in 1916, Lydia Home Association has served Chicago's children and families through foster care, residential treatment, family preservation, and counseling for over a century.
Co-founded by Lydia Home in 2003, Safe Families is a volunteer-driven movement that mobilizes caring families and mentors to support children and parents before a crisis reaches a breaking point.
"Together, our organizations serve countless children and families each year — sharing a mission of keeping families together and ensuring every child has a safe, nurturing place to grow."
DAVID ANDERSON · EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LYDIA HOME
PROGRAMS
Support at every point along the Way
Our programs form a connected spectrum, from helping families in a moment of need to supporting young people as they step into adulthood.
Safe Families for Children
Volunteer families host or support children during a parent's crisis, keeping kids safe without entering the child welfare system.
Family Preservation
In-home management of cases, counseling, and community connections for families referred directly by DCFS aimed at keeping children safely at home.
Learn more →Foster Care
Temporary, loving foster placement for children who must leave home, with a dedicated team working toward family reunification at every step.
Learn more →Residential Foster Care
A structured, therapeutic environment for children with serious behavioral & emotional challenges, to help them heal and build skills to thrive.
Learn more →Safe Families Plus
Trained volunteer mentors walk alongside youth aging out of foster care, providing connection, guidance, and support as they step into adulthood.
Counseling Center Services
Professional counseling for individuals, children, couples, and families of all ages and backgrounds at every stage of the journey.
PROGRAMS
See how our programs work together
From prevention to aftercare, every program at Lydia Home is part of a connected whole, built to meet families wherever they are.