How many children are served by Thornwell?


Thornwell serves approximately 100 children annually in our residential program. Presently, we operate 13 residentia­l cottages with six to eight children per home. In addition, Thornwell provides many opportunities for the children and youth in our local community to be involved on campus. The Thornwell Agriculture Education Center (TAEC) and the local high school agriculture departments partner to offer youth an opportunity to learn the particulars of a working farm and how to care for animals. Several times a year, the TAEC partners with the Joe R. Adair Outdoor Education Center to host hundreds of local elementary school children, introducing them to the animals on Thornwell’s farm. During the summer, mission groups from all over the southeast can be seen on campus volunteering their time and interacting with Thornwell’s children and youth.


How are children referred to Thornwell?


Children are most often referred by families, ministers, psychiatrists, or therapists. Some children come to Thornwell from the Department of Social Services because they have been removed from their families or because the adoption process has broken down. Thornwell accepts physical custody, but does not take legal custody of children.


Can Thornwell help strengthen the ties between the children and their biological families?


Yes! That is one of the primary goals of our program. At Thornwell, we work to reunite a child with their biological family, whenever possible. We are committed to building strong family ties, and we invite families to come and be part of our team effort.


How long can a child or youth stay at Thornwell?


Because of the support of Presbyterians from across the Synod, as well as other generous individuals and organizations, children can stay at Thornwell as long as they need to. This makes Thornwell unique among most children’s homes. Some children stay only one year; others stay as long as 12 years, depending upon the family situation.


In each case, Thornwell’s staff develops an individual plan for each child—with the goal always to reunite the child with members of his/her biological family, provided that reunification is safe and appropriate for the child.


Where do children go when they leave Thornwell?


Some return to their families once the home situation has stabilized. Unfortunately, sometimes families withdraw their children from Thornwell before we feel it’s safe or appropriate for those children to return to the family setting.


For youth who remain at Thornwell until graduation, many will go to four-year colleges, or to technical or trade schools for further education; some to military service. Our staff helps students find scholarship assistance and we are also able to provide some tuition assistance. Thornwell will also help graduating students prepare for the workplace and for independent living.


How is Thornwell funded?


Thornwell is almost entirely supported by private funding. This support comes primarily from individuals, Presbyterian churches, foundations, and businesses. Gifts from donors provide approximately 67% of the total revenue for Thornwell each year. Income from Thornwell’s endowment produces approximately 23% of the annual income for support. An additional 10% of revenue comes from fees and miscellaneous income.


Can I sponsor a child or cottage at Thornwell?


Absolutely! Just call our Sponsorship Office at 864-938-2700 to find out how. There are many ways you and/or your church can help, including donations toward special occasions (such as birthdays, graduation, or Christmas), allowances, and clothing. You can also contact us to find out how you can help provide for the immediate needs in our Teaching-Family cottages.


Are there other ways I can support Thornwell?


Your prayers for the work and ministry of Thornwell are always needed! Your undesignated financial support and/or the support of your church help us provide for the daily needs and education of the children in our care. We also encourage you to contact the Thornwell Development Office to discuss how your estate can provide for Thornwell’s children beyond your lifetime.


Are tours available on the Thornwell campus?


Yes, just call our Development Office at 864-938-2734 to arrange for a visit.