About Us

A Reality Most People Don’t Even See

Every day in South Carolina, several thousand children are living outside their family homes because of abuse, neglect, abandonment and other situations. These children are served by private agencies that provide care in emergency, long-term and adoptive settings. Many of these agencies belong to an organization dedicated to helping ensure the quality of care the children receive—the Palmetto Association for Children and Families (PAFCAF).

Over 50 Reasons We Know the Fix

Originally known as the South Carolina Association of Children’s Homes and Families Services, PAFCAF, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) Membership organization, that was created in 1986 to unite these diverse agencies and provide education, support and leadership that strengthens the capacity of its Member agencies to produce positive outcomes for children and their families.

Who Are Our Members?

Our Members are private sector (both not-for-profit and for-profit) organizations that offer a wide continuum of services, including community-based prevention services, supervised independent living, RBHS services, emergency shelter care, foster care, group care, therapeutic foster care, and residential treatment.

Who fixes Trauma, Neglect and Abuse?

PAFCAF’s member agencies serve approximately 85 percent of children and teens in foster care across South Carolina. Children who receive services provided by PAFCAF members include those who have experienced trauma, been neglected or abused, those who are medically fragile or have other physical or mental disabilities, and those who are emotionally disturbed. The challenges of caring for these children are great. PAFCAF works to promote the best care possible for children and youth.

We Know the Politics

The Palmetto Association for Children and Families seeks to advance the interests and priorities of its Membership, while also addressing policy and legislative issues impacting children and families. Our Members’ priorities are shared with the South Carolina General Assembly, other non-profit and thought leaders, government agencies, and stakeholders who are working in the field of child and family services.


Mission Statement

PAFCAF provides education, support and leadership
that strengthens the capacity of member agencies
to produce positive outcomes for children and their families.