The Truth About Orphanages: Not All Children Are Orphans.

Across the developing world, the number of orphanages has exploded. Shockingly, over 80% of children living in these institutions are NOT orphans.

Instead, global research reveals a disturbing truth: children are often trafficked from their families into orphanages to generate funds, becoming a hidden form of modern slavery. Well-meaning donations, intended to help, are unintentionally fueling this Global Orphanage Crisis. The more money flows in, the more orphanages open, and the more children are needlessly separated from their families to fill their beds.

Decades of international research confirm what developed nations already know: institutionalisation severely impacts a child’s physical, psychological, and social development, leaving lifelong scars. True family-based care is always the best solution.

 

 

Our Mission: ReThink Orphanages. Reconnect Families.

Forget Me Not is a proud founding member of ReThink Orphanages, a powerful, cross-sector network committed to ending the unnecessary institutionalisation of children. We are working to fundamentally shift how Australia approaches overseas aid and development, prioritising family preservation and community-based solutions over institutional care.

The ReThink Orphanages Network brings together leaders from international aid, philanthropy, education, and faith-based communities. We’re collaborating with key stakeholders in government, media, and the travel industry to take decisive action against the alarming number of children being unnecessarily confined in institutions.

Join Us. Be Part of the Solution.

This crisis is preventable, and you have a vital role to play. Learn more about the ReThink Orphanages movement, understand the true impact of institutional care, and discover how your support can help children grow up where they belong – with their families.

Learn More: Deepen your understanding of the Global Orphanage Crisis and its solutions.

Get Involved: Discover ways to share this critical message and become an advocate.

Support Our Work: Your tax-deductible donation helps us advocate for change and promote family-based care.

Every child deserves a future filled with hope, and you can make that a reality.

Will you be a Seed of Hope Supporter ($50) planting the first seeds of learning, or a Guiding Light Giver ($100) illuminating their path with vital support? Perhaps you’ll be a Nurturing Hand Partner ($250) providing warmth and stability, or a Pathway to Possibility Champion ($500) opening doors to brighter futures. For those who dream bigger, become an Enduring Legacy Visionary ($1,000+) and help us build a lasting foundation of care.