Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that the decision to seek outside support for a child is extremely difficult. We also understand that the placement process can seem particularly overwhelming when you’re already dealing with so much. We are here to help.

           What is Shiloh?

  • Independent Christian-based ministry, designed to help children and youth.
  • Located in Clarence, MO.
  • Six traditional full-time homes and two relief (respite) homes with Christian Homeparents.
  • Traditional family setting: Husband and wife practicing Biblical teaching and discipline.
  • Up to 10 children per home.
  • Picturesque rural ranch-style setting.

How Can Shiloh Help?

  • Provide a safe, Christian home for children who are capable of functioning in a traditional family setting.
  • Provide contract counseling on a weekly or bi-monthly basis, as determined by the Homeparents and Counselors.
  • Administer medication and therapeutic techniques to assist the child in overcoming their struggles.
  • Promote Christian beliefs through daily devotions and regular church and youth group attendance.
  • Establish healthy, functional relationships based on Christlike examples.
  • While we do work with many attachment issues, we are not attachment specialists, and some more extreme attachment issues may be beyond what Shiloh is equipped to handle.

           Who Can Come to Shiloh?

  • Children birth to 15 (children may remain here until they turn 18 or graduate).
  • Children who have experienced abuse and/or neglect.
  • Children with behavioral issues that do not prevent them from functioning in a typical family setting.
  • Children who are at risk: homeless, parents or extended family are unable to adequately care for them.
  • Children desiring to make a positive change in their life.

           What Does It Cost to Send a Child to Shiloh?

  • There is no fee to send a child to Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch.
  • Funded entirely by churches and private donors.
  • Donations are greatly appreciated but cannot be processed as charitable donations when given by a child’s parent or guardian.

           How Long Will My Child Stay at Shiloh? 

  • Until the child has made marked improvement in their problem areas.
  • Until such a time as the Homeparents and parents agree the child is ready to return home.
  • Some children stay at Shiloh permanently.

           Is There a Waiting List at Shiloh?

  • No. Children’s needs and Homeparent strengths are carefully “matched” to ensure the best potential placement outcome.
  • We will hold your child’s completed application for up to one year while considering him/her for each suitable opening.
  • Who Has Custody of My Child?
  • Legal custody of the child remains with the person who has custody at the time of placement.
  • Shiloh does not typically assume custody of placed children.
  • If custody is shared between multiple people, all parties must consent to placement, sign placement documentation, and share allotted visitation time.

           Can Parents/Guardians Visit Their Child?

  • For the first 30 days contact is not allowed between the legal custody holder and the child. However, parents and guardians may contact the homeparents for occasional updates.
  • After the first 30 days, visits are scheduled on a monthly basis as long as the Homeparents, child, and parents agree that the visits are beneficial.
  • Visits should be arranged with Homeparents at least two weeks prior to the requested visit date.

           What Would Make Placement Unsafe for My Child?

  • The need for medication regulation, stabilization, or changes (although medication changes may be made if approved by an outside provider once the child is stabilized) that could pose a risk to the child’s physical condition.
  • Mental health crisis or actively suicidal, homicidal, or extreme self-harm behaviors.
  • The need for intensive therapeutic intervention or psychiatric care.
  • The need for lockdown care or children at risk of elopement (running away).
  • A child who suffers from a chronic health condition, communicable disease, or a condition that prevents them from
    functioning independently.
  • Children with educational disabilities beyond what would be equivalent to an IQ of 70 or below.
  • Children who present a health or safety risk to other children.