Seton Villa – Residential Care for Children

How Catholic Charities Helps

Catholic Charities operates Seton Villa, a group home that provides 24-hour care to children between the ages of 6 to 12 with histories of serious abuse, neglect, dependency, and emotional problems. Referrals come from the State of Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families.  The normal operating capacity for the group home is up to six children.

The primary goal of the program is to work with the children placed in care and their families to reduce parent/child conflict and return the child home. Children with no families to whom they will return are placed in adoption, foster care, or independent living.

While in residence, the children attend school in the community and participate in community activities. Their life at Seton Villa is made to feel as homelike as possible.  A professional, caring staff of childcare counselors works daily with the youth to achieve the goals they have set for themselves. Established routines help bring important structure and security to their lives. Therapists from various community mental health agencies counsel the youth and their families to treat personal and family issues that impede successful relationships.

Those who work with Seton Villa are enthusiastic about the program.

“Seton Villa has been a Godsend to me!  Seton Villa has helped me prepare five children for adoption or other goals with good success. The staff is very easy to work with and knowledgeable about the needs of our kids.

“I never have to worry about whether or not my clients are going to the dentist, doctor, or therapist, and I know that they will be engaged in numerous extracurricular activities and community programs. The kids are very well cared for and they enjoy being there.

“No child wants to be in care, but if they are, Seton Villa is the place to be! If it were up to me, all difficult-to-place children would be able to go to Seton Villa. I wish that there were more beds available. The Seton Villa program should be the model for group homes in Delaware.”  Jennifer U, DFS, Permanency Unit, NCC

How You Can Help

The children of Seton Villa rely on volunteers for mentoring, academic enrichment, and special activities.  If you would like to become part of the Seton Villa family, contact the program manager.  An approved application and a personal interview are required for all volunteers.

Seton Villa

800 Bellevue Road

Wilmington DE 19809

302-762-2982 / 302-762-2914

Click here to send an email for more information.

Click here to donate to Seton Villa using a credit card.  You may also send a check to Catholic Charities, 2601 W 4th Street, Wilmington, DE 19805, and designate Seton Villa on the check memo line.

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