Who we are —

More than 140 years of caring for the vulnerable

Since 1885, BCH has walked alongside the most vulnerable. We are rooted in the love of Christ, sustained by the church, and called to serve children, families, and individuals with care that restores dignity and points to lasting hope.

Joyful baby smiling outdoors in a candid black and white shot, capturing a moment of pure happiness.
Years of Ministry
children served in 2025
children adopted in 2025
Decisions for Christ in 2025

What We Do

Meeting real needs with hope that lasts.

BCH serves children, families, and individuals through a network of ministries designed to meet both immediate and long-term needs, providing stability, encouragement, and the opportunity to build a stronger future.

CHILD & FAMILY WELFARE:

OTHER MINISTRIES:

  • Foster care through individual homes and residential care
  • Foster family training, licensing, and support
  • Domestic adoption and international adoption through Guatemala partners
  • Ongoing support for birth moms to equip them for the future
  • Residential care for adults with intellectual & developmental disabilities
  • Ministry to senior and aging adults
  • Collegiate ministry at Western Carolina University
A cheerful family enjoying a joyful moment outdoors, embracing with love and happiness.
Mary Presson as an adult holding a child

OUR STORY

It started with one little girl.

In 1885, a young girl named Mary Presson stepped off a train in Thomasville, North Carolina, the very first child received into care at the Thomasville Baptist Orphanage.

What started with a single location and a small group of caring individuals has grown into a network of ministries serving children, families, and individuals across multiple communities. Over the decades, the ministry expanded to respond to the changing needs of families.

“While much has changed since those early days, the heart of the ministry remains the same — offering hope and help to those who need it most.”

Today, BCH serves through foster care, residential care, and adoption services, family support ministries, and church partnerships designed to strengthen communities throughout North Carolina and beyond.

Pure and undefiled religion…

To care for the vulnerable is not just part of our history. It is part of our calling. Since 1885, Baptist Children’s Homes has sought to live out the love of Christ by serving children, families, and individuals with compassion, dignity, and hope.

Our History and Legacy —

140 years. Countless lives.

Since 1885, God has used this ministry to impact generation after generation of children and families.

1885
THE BEGINNING

The ministry begins in Thomasville, NC, when Mary Presson becomes the first child received into care.

Mid-1900s
GROWING THE MISSION

Additional campuses and programs are developed to meet the needs of children across North Carolina.

1990s–2000s
EXPANDING CARE

BCH broadens to include foster care, adoption services, family support, and specialized programs.

Today
CONTINUING THE MISSION

Through 30+ locations and partnerships with thousands of churches, BCH continues sharing hope and changing lives.

Our Faith —

Rooted in the love of Christ.

At Baptist Children’s Homes, our work is rooted in the transforming love of Jesus Christ. Our faith shapes everything we do, from how we care for children and families to how we partner with churches and communities.

We believe every person is created in the image of God and deserves dignity, compassion, and the opportunity to experience hope. Because of this conviction, our ministries seek not only to meet physical and emotional needs, but to point people to the lasting hope found in Christ.

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction… James 1:27 (ESV)
Heartwarming black and white family portrait outdoors with parents and child.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

Held to the highest standard, because every child deserves it.

Baptist Children’s Homes is committed to serving with integrity, accountability, and excellence. Through ongoing evaluation, professional training, and careful oversight, we continually strengthen our programs so that every child and family receives the best possible care.

Council on Accreditation (COA) accredited organization seal

Council on Accreditation

Fully accredited and held to rigorous national standards for child and family services.


Charity Navigator rating seal

Charity Navigator Rated

Independently rated for transparency, financial health, and accountability.


Ready to be part of what’s next?

Whether you want to learn more, get involved, or simply ask a question, we’d love to hear from you.