Our Story

Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch began in 1977. The Mission of Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch is to provide Christian homes  for abused, neglected, and other at-risk children, and to meet the spiritual, emotional, social, and physical needs of each child.

This vision was brought to life by Mr. Don McClain, and local pastor, Mr. Stan Way. During a discussion between the two, they realized there was a need for Christian children’s homes in Northeast Missouri, and that adequate financial support could be garnered from local area churches. They believed this financial support could build as many as three homes in rural Clarence, Missouri. They shared their vision with other local residents, several of which would eventually go on to serve as members of the Board of Trustees.

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Brown generously donated the land for the Clarence site, and by 1983 three homes were actively ministering to vulnerable children. Today, the number of homes at the Clarence, Missouri site has grown to four full-time homes and one relief home.

In 1985, Shiloh’s ministry had expanded to include two additional full-time homes, a relief-home, and an on-site school at the Kahoka, Missouri site.

In 2022, the decision was made to merge the Kahoka and Clarence sites into one. In an effort to be good stewards of the generous financial gifts provided by churches and private donors, and to further strengthen the bonds of faith, family, and fellowship amongst the Shiloh families. The Clarence site was selected as the setting for this new chapter. The Spring of 2023 brought warmer weather, the glorious green hue of nature awakening, and new life in the fields and pastures throughout the rolling hills of rural Northeast Missouri as crops were planted and livestock was born. Spring also provided the perfect opportunity to begin construction on the first of two new homes planned for the Clarence site. The addition of these homes allows Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch to offer more vulnerable children an opportunity to leave their past behind and begin anew just as nature does each spring. In addition to the construction of two new homes, renovations began on the current guest lodge, to ensure children who qualify will have access to on-site education.

What does an ordinary day look like at Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch?

  • A normal day at Shiloh looks much like a normal day for any family in America’s heartland
  • Children work together in a family setting learning to cook, clean, care for animals, and complete daily chores
  • Children attend school
  • Families go on outings, shopping trips, family vacations, sporting events, and community events
  • Shiloh families attend the local Christian Church as a family and will also share daily devotions in the home, attend youth group, Christian summer camps, Christian music concerts, and other faith-based events

Grow With Us.

Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch continues to grow and flourish through the unmatched generosity of donors, dedicated staff, and incredible homeparents. Are you interested in becoming a member of the Shiloh family?

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