Our Mission
Serving more than 4,200 children in crisis since 1997
The mission of the Children’s Shelter is to be a safe and stable home that provides long-term, evidence-based, trauma-informed, resident-centered and family-focused care to youth in foster care who exhibit emotional and behavioral disorders due to neglect and/or abuse.
The CES allows children in crisis the opportunity to JUST BE KIDS!

The Fort Smith Children’s Emergency Shelter Independent Living Program, GetREAL24, provides a fully-furnished, one-bedroom apartment to young adults, ages 18 and older, who have “aged out” of foster care. GetREAL24 provides the support and resources to help these young adults transition to independence and become successful, contributing members of society.