The mission of CHILD, Inc.’s Governor Terry Children’s Center is to reduce the risk, occurrence, or recurrence of child abuse and neglect by providing a safe emergency home, meals, clothing and age-appropriate activities and counseling to children, ages 9 – 17. CHILD, Inc. has operated the Governor Terry Children’s Center for over 50 years as a 10-bed, short-term (30 – 45 days) emergency shelter. The children in the center are in the care/custody of the State of Delaware and referrals are accepted only through the Division of Family Services. No outside referrals are permitted.

In addition to provision of essential needs, everyday crisis alleviation and supportive care, each resident receives a thorough psychosocial assessment, as well as continued individual counseling when needed. Other services such as advocacy, referrals, collateral involvement and therapeutic family interactions, are provided when appropriate. Clinical and other general observations about the children and youth are possible because of the unique 24-hour home-like environment, and can be useful in making recommendations about future placement, medical conditions, mental health issues, and social needs. The Home director and staff become integral in the experience of the children and youth during a potentially traumatic period in their lives.

Home staff provides transportation as needed so that residents may continue going to the schools that they attended before placement, providing continuity. The residents also take part in weekly group activities, evening study time, recreational activities and outings. Several organizations in the community generously donate goods, services, and/or provision of various activities to the residents throughout the year.