Bethesda Children's Home was officially incorporated in 1919 as the Orphans’ Home of the Pittsburgh Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, through the generosity of Mr. William S. Wise who donated his farm for the purpose of creating an orphanage. The early program at Bethesda was primarily one of custodial care. The girls were taught housework, sewing, and domestic science. The boys worked on the farm, in the fields, gardens, and barn. There was also an on-grounds school which was attended by local children as well.
Today, Bethesda serves more than 1000 children, and their families from across Western Pennsylvania every day. A day treatment was started in 1991. This program which is designed for children and youth who struggle in the public school setting allows participants to attend smaller classrooms with more individualized instruction while remaining in their own homes. In 1992 Bethesda added the Partial Hospitalization program which provides psychiatric and psychological testing and counseling to the youth of Crawford County. These services are provided during the day at school which allows for the youth to remain in their own homes.
Mission Statement: Bethesda Lutheran Services is a ministry providing promising futures for children, youth, and families.
To learn more about Bethesda Lutheran Services, visit www.bethesda1919.org.
