Orphanage

:This article is about the institutions for orphans. For the band, see Orphanage (band).

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An orphanage is an institution dedicated to caring for orphans (children without living parents). Orphanages often attempt to find homes for children in their care. They may be privately or publicly funded.

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The term is sometimes also used to denote institutions where children reside without cohabiting parents, irrespective of the life status of the latter. In many works of fiction (notable Oliver Twist and Annie) the administrators of orphanages are depicted as cruel monsters.

Related Topics:
Fiction - Oliver Twist - Annie

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The largest existing orphanage in the United States is the Bethesda Orphanage, founded in 1740 by George Whitefield. Another famous American orphanage is Girls and Boys Town, located outside Omaha, Nebraska. The term "orphanage" has been largely replaced by "group home" in modern times.

Related Topics:
United States - Bethesda Orphanage - 1740 - George Whitefield - Girls and Boys Town - Omaha, Nebraska

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Many orphanages are run by religious organisations.

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