Join Us as Houseparents and Transform Lives!
Who are houseparents?
Houseparents play a front-line role in our Homes for Children ministry. Houseparents are responsible for the day-to-day care, guidance and training of the children in their cottage. If you are a mission-minded married couple looking to make a difference, you might make great houseparents at STCH Ministries.
Who we are!
STCH Ministries is a faith-based, nonprofit organization dedicated to healing, restoring and transforming the lives of children and families. With a history of service spanning decades, we operate with a commitment to honoring God and reaching individuals with His love and truth.
The role of houseparents:
Houseparents at STCH Ministries are compassionate, Christ-centered couples dedicated to nurturing and guiding children with love and empathy, creating an environment where they can thrive.
As houseparents, you will:
- Model Christian values and lifestyles daily.
- Provide a safe and nurturing home environment.
- Assist children with daily tasks, including transportation, homework and meal preparation.
- Provide emotional support, teach life skills and guide children in their daily pursuit of Jesus.
- Collaborate with other Homes for Children and STCH Ministries teams to support the holistic well-being of children and their families.
What we look for:
If you have a heart for children, a desire to make a difference and meet the criteria outlined below, we invite you to explore the rewarding role of houseparents at STCH Ministries.
Criteria for houseparents:
- Ability to love, nurture and equip groups of children.
- Be able to encourage a relationship with Christ through daily devotions, prayer at meals and regular church attendance.
- Commitment to the academic success and spiritual growth of children.
- To serve as a Christian minister of reconciliation to each child.
- Align with STCH Ministries’ mission and core values.
Why choose STCH Ministries:
- Make a Lasting Impact: Discover the joy of witnessing transformation through Christ and making a real difference in the lives of children under your care.
- Join a Supportive Community: Access training, resources and a supportive community of fellow houseparents, where you will find encouragement, guidance and fellowship.
- Live Out Your Faith: Experience the fulfillment of serving others and living out your faith in action.
- Be a Part of Something Greater: Enjoy the rewards of a meaningful career, contributing to the healing, restoration and transformation of young lives.
Your next steps:
- Explore our website to learn more about STCH Ministries.
- Contact us to schedule a tour and learn about available opportunities.
- Join us in prayer as we seek God’s guidance in this important decision.
- If you sense a calling, consider applying for an open houseparent position.
Together, let’s make a difference!
Join us on this incredible journey of healing, restoration and transformation. Your commitment as houseparents will impact generations to come. Together, we can bring hope and love to those who need it most.
Testimonials from Current Houseparents
Frequently Asked Questions
On-Duty/Off-Duty Expectations
How often will houseparents be on-duty?
Houseparents work a 21-day on-duty / 7-day off-duty schedule. Efforts will be made to give additional paid time off when schedules and childcare needs permit.
Is the school year schedule different than the holiday and summer schedules?
Kids in the care of STCH Ministries Homes for Children attend public school in Pettus, so our holiday and summer schedules are dictated by the school district.
Do houseparents need to attend church on Sunday?
Houseparents must attend a local Baptist church with their cottage.
Guidelines for Families and Pets
How many biological children are allowed?
Houseparents can have up to 3 of their own kids in the cottage; there are no age restrictions.
Where do the houseparent’s biological children go to school?
Parents decide where their biological children attend school.
What is the pet policy?
Houseparents and staff who live on campus are allowed to have one pet per household. Pets must be kid-friendly and there is a non-refundable deposit required.
Orientation and Training
Is there any houseparent training provided by STCH Ministries?
Yes, there is preservice training as well as ongoing training throughout the year.
What is the process for orientation to get houseparents comfortable with caring for children who have been through trauma or other complicated circumstances/issues?
We provide staff mentorship, caseworker and counselor support, and a “hands-on” experience in the cottage with close supervision.
Job Responsibilities
How are performance reviews and evaluations done? How often?
Quarterly supervisions and annual evaluations are conducted by the Supervisor.
Can either spouse pursue employment outside of the houseparent role? What about gig work, side jobs (such as food delivery or selling goods), or remote positions?
The simple answer is no, but it could be possible during time off. It would require discussion and approval from the supervisor.
What are the age ranges of the children under houseparents’ care? Do houseparents have a choice in which gender of the cottage they are assigned to?
We are licensed to accept children from birth thru 17 years old. The gender of the cottage will depend on the needs of the campus.
What is the maximum number of children that a houseparent couple could be responsible for?
Our cottages care for up to 8 kids in care (plus your children).
How long may children stay at STCH Ministries Homes for Children?
Through high school graduation.
Benefits, Transportation and Funding
What types of insurance, retirement plans and additional benefits are available to houseparents?
STCH Ministries provides health insurance for Houseparents and their dependents, retirement, sick leave and bereavement leave.
Will a vehicle be provided, or do houseparents need to bring their own transportation?
Each cottage has a van that is used by the houseparents on duty.
How is STCH Ministries funded?
STCH Ministries is 100% privately funded.
Personal
Do houseparents need to be Christian?
Yes, and they must agree to the STCH Ministries faith & message statement.
Are there age requirements for houseparent couples?
Houseparents must be at least 21 years of age.
What are the education requirements to become a houseparent?
A high school diploma or GED are required.
Do houseparents have to be US citizens?
Yes.
What are typical traits of a successful houseparent couple?
Love God, love children, flexibility, accountability, teachable and a desire to help change lives.
Do houseparents have to be married?
Yes, and preferably for 2+ years.
Miscellaneous
Are houseparents able to maintain relationships with children after they graduate or leave the campus?
Not only is this allowed, but we encourage our houseparents and staff to build relationships that last long after kids leave our care.
Why are children placed with STCH Ministries?
Potential reasons for a child to be placed at Homes for Children include:
• Crisis with family relationships
• Caretakers with health issues
• Children/families who have behavioral issues, poor social skills or financial issues
