Most of our children come to us from homes in crisis. These children are not orphans, but they are without a home because of abuse, neglect, abandonment, and/or other difficult family situations. The children are usually removed from a difficult home situation by a family member or the legal system for placement at ACCH. Many of the children have experienced such severe degrees of abuse that they face difficulty in adjusting to a "normal" home life. Many children have not had any new clothes or shoes in years.

The children range from 6-18 years of age. They attend Albuquerque Public Schools, and are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and even R.O.T.C. The older children anticipate getting their drivers license and going to college. The houseparents and staff help the children with homework, direct them toward responsibility and high ideals with love, discipline, support and example as well as guiding them through teenage struggles.

The children attend church regularly with their houseparents. They participate in church activities and attend bible study classes. Many children have been baptized and continue with their spiritual walk after they leave ACCH.