DePelchin Children’s Center is committed to meeting the needs of Houston’s children as the largest, most comprehensive provider of mental health, prevention and early intervention, and child welfare services.

For 118 years, DePelchin has been serving the children and families of the Houston area.  The agency was founded in 1892 by Kezia Payne DePelchin to shelter orphaned children. It was originally named the Faith Home, because Mrs. DePelchin had faith in the wonderful business leaders of Houston to support her cause. Although she died within a year, the community leaders, touched by her passion and mission, became united in their determination to carry on her work. Over the years, DePelchin has expanded and adapted its programs to meet the needs of a dynamic and growing Houston. Today, services are provided in over 60 locations in Harris, Montgomery, Galveston, Ft. Bend and Waller counties. DePelchin Children's Center serves more than 20,000 children and family members annually through 30 dynamic programs, including: Adoption – DePelchin handles all forms of domestic adoptions but focuses on children who are in the custody of the State of Texas. Currently there are over 1,200 children in the Houston area who are available for adoption. Foster Care – As the largest private provider of foster care services, the agency takes care of over 500 children in 350 licensed foster homes. Counseling Services – Treatment for children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, or other psychological issues includes working with the entire family. Autism Services – A team of professionals provide autism assessments, therapy, groups, and other services to help children who have autism and their families Prevention Services – DePelchin staff are working in schools and community centers to help prevent teen pregnancy, gang involvement, drug and alcohol abuse, truancy and bullying. Counselors are currently involved with the schools to help Katrina evacuees deal with the trauma they continue to experience. Residential Services – 24-hour therapeutic services for children and teens in a short-term program are designed to return the child to their home as quickly as possible. Post-Adoption Services – Knowing that families need continued support even after adoptions are finalized, DePelchin provides counseling and other support services to adopted children and their families. Search and Reunion Services – DePelchin is able to help reunite birth parents and children. Teen Parenting and Transitional Living Services – DePelchin provides services for teens who become pregnant and need help before and after the birth of their baby with medical, housing, education completion, job search, daycare search, basic living and parenting skills. Parent and Family Education and Resources – Group classes provide basic parenting skills and specific skills for parents of children with special needs. Some classes include children’s groups designed to teach social, communication and self-esteem skills. Our Vision  We envision a world in which every child is safe and healthy. Our Mission We strengthen the lives of children by enhancing their mental health and physical well-being.

Related Links How We're Doing: 2009 Outcomes and Client Feedback View the brochure... A PIECE OF HISTORY Jesse H. Jones A man who impacted DePelchin and Houston. Read about his mark...