4 Things to Know About Family Preservation
Family preservation is a beautiful picture of God’s plan for each family. From the first family created in the Garden of Eden, we see God’s heart for families. We witness His desire for parents and children to stay together, for the vulnerable to be supported, and for communities to rally around those in need. Family preservation is the effort to keep families intact by providing support, resources, and temporary assistance to parents facing crisis, so they can continue caring for their children safely. At New Mercies, we believe in this mission wholeheartedly, walking alongside parents to ensure they have the support needed to care for their children. Here are four things to know about family preservation and why it matters.
1. Family Preservation Reflects God’s Design
From the beginning, God created families to be the foundation of love, security, and growth. Psalm 68:6 tells us, “God sets the lonely in families; he leads out the prisoners with singing.” His design is for children to grow up surrounded by the love and guidance of their parents whenever possible. Family preservation isn’t just about keeping families together. It’s about strengthening them so they can thrive.
2. Many Families Need Support, Not Separation
When parents face crises, whether due to financial struggles, medical emergencies, or housing instability, they don’t need judgment; they need support. Many families at risk of separation simply lack a safety net. According to the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS), 60% of children enter foster care due to neglect—often linked to housing instability or lack of resources, rather than abuse. With temporary care for children, access to resources, and encouragement from a supportive community, many parents can regain stability and continue raising their children. The solution isn’t removing children from their parents but equipping parents with the help they need.
3. Preventing Family Separation Leads to Better Outcomes
Research consistently shows that children do best when they can safely remain with their families. Long-term separation, whether through foster care or institutional settings, can lead to emotional and developmental challenges. Between 50% and 80% of children in foster care live with a mental health disorder due to the trauma they have experienced. This includes not only the situation that led to their separation but also the separation itself and the impermanency of foster care. Family preservation helps break cycles of trauma and instability by offering a proactive approach. Instead of waiting for a crisis to escalate, organizations like New Mercies step in early to provide families with what they need to stay together.
4. You Can Be Part of Family Preservation!
Family preservation isn’t just for social workers or ministry leaders—it’s for all of us. Whether by becoming a Host Family, mentoring a parent, providing transportation, offering a listening ear, or supporting ministries reaching families, each of us has a role to play. Simple acts of kindness, like delivering a meal or helping with childcare, can make all the difference for a struggling parent.
When we support family preservation, we reflect God’s heart for redemption and restoration through the family. Children are protected and isolated parents find support, all at the same time!