THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

-Information courtesy Kevin Otis, Administrator, Masonic Home for Children at Oxford

COVID-19 has brought a health, economic, and social pandemic to families. The Masonic Home for Children at Oxford (MHCO) provides a safe haven for children to grow, learn, and develop. The Masonic Home for Children at Oxford is North Carolina’s first children’s home celebrating 147 years of helping children in need. MHCO continues that proud tradition through two programs, Group Cottage Foster Care and Independent Living. 

The Masonic Home for Children at Oxford provides loving care for children and young adults aged birth to twenty-two.  Children reside in cottages with live-in House Parent Child Care Workers. The family-style program meets children where they are developmentally and provides a nurturing, learning environment. Supports are provided to help children with academics, become gainfully employed, obtain transportation, participate in extracurricular activities, and manage the trauma they may be facing. Families stay involved and co-parent with the program team to develop Individual Service Plans to address needs, set goals, and build in supports to achieve personal milestones.  

The Independent Living Program (ILP) provides apartments for young adults. ILP residents continue education at Vance- Granville Community College, trade schools, and four-year universities. Coaching is provided to help residents obtain and maintain employment. Independent living skills are taught relating to a variety of topics including cooking and cleaning, driver’s education, budget management, and tax preparation.  

The Masonic Home for Children is located in Oxford, North Carolina on a pristine 347-acre campus. Cottages provide up to eight residents with their own bedroom, bathroom suite, and open kitchen/family room setting. Playgrounds, basketball courts, a gymnasium, and outdoor pool provide opportunities for children to be active, learn skills, and develop confidence. 

The foundations of success include a strong emphasis on Education, Vocation, Spiritual Development, Recreation, Responsibility, and Respect. The program provides a family of support that includes the child’s family of origin, all working together for the child’s best interests. Long term goals include returning home and independence.  

MHCO has helped well over 10,000 children have a chance at a better life. Alumni have gone on to become business owners, military leaders, and receive doctorates. For many, success is being able to provide for themselves and their families.  

The need for services provided by MHCO is even more necessary during these difficult times. The Masonic Home for Children at Oxford can provide for your children as you manage the challenges you and your family face. Parents maintain guardianship, and scholarships are available to provide the cost of care.

Learn more about referring a child in need by calling (919) 693-5111 or visiting MHCO’s website at www.mhc-oxford.org.