About Us

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hutton Settlement Children’s Home?

The Hutton Settlement is a home for kids between the ages of ages 5 and 18 that nurtures, educates and prepares children who are in need of a safe and healthy home.

Do you take over guardianship of the child?

In some situations we do, but in most cases parents or guardians maintain guardianship, serving as “permanency partners” in the care of the child.

What does long-term, permanent placement mean?

A placement is for a minimum of one year.  Hutton Settlement exists to provide long-term stability for children from families in chronic crisis or need.

Do you facilitate adoptions?

No.  The Hutton Settlement is not an adoption-placing agency.

How are you funded and what does it cost to place a child at Hutton?

Hutton Settlement operates independently from government funding. 

The cost of placement of children residing at Hutton Settlement Children’s Home is paid for by an endowment established by our founder, Levi Hutton, as well as other donors who desire to participate in the financial support of our children.   The current requested contribution for care of a child at Hutton Settlement is $200 monthly, however no child is turned away because of a parent or family’s inability to financially contribute. 

What ages of children do you serve?

The Hutton Settlement receives children from five to 14 years of age.  Once received, children are able to reside at Hutton until high school graduation.

What are the living arrangements for children at Hutton Settlement?

The Hutton Settlement Campus is located on more than 300 beautiful acres in the Spokane Valley.  Children live in one of four large homes with 7-8 other children.  We have two homes dedicated for girls and two homes dedicated for boys.

What schools do the children attend?

The children attend public school in the West Valley School District, and receive tutoring services from Gonzaga University students.

Do you accept children with behavioral problems or diagnoses?

We do have children who have been diagnosed with reactive attachment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit disorder.  Children with disruptive social behavioral disorders, including oppositional defiance and conduct disorder, are rarely successful in the group care environment of the Hutton Settlement, thus placement is often discouraged.

How do parents and guardians stay connected to children residing at Hutton?

Parent and guardian contact is a critical component in providing partnered care for all children placed at Hutton.  Standard visitation involves two weekends per month, but may vary depending on the health and safety of the home, and the ability of the parent or guardian to provide care.  Extended visits of one to two weeks occur during holidays and summer break.  Our Director of Children and Family Services functions as the family liaison, facilitating visitation and providing consistent contact and updates regarding the child’s progress.

What are the credentials of your staff?

The majority of the Hutton staff have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in child welfare fields including psychology, education and social work.  Hutton prides itself in employing a diverse staff, including young professionals, experienced parents, and even former residents.  All house parent staff completed the Child and Youth Residential Care Professional national certification training in 2010, and receive ongoing monthly training and therapeutic consultation. All staff undergo a background check prior to their hire at Hutton Settlement.

Are there counseling services available?

Yes.  We recognize that many of the children are dealing with attachment, grief and loss, or trauma-related issues, therefore weekly therapeutic services are available as needed.  Psychological assessments and medication evaluations are available as recommended.

What does a typical daily schedule look like?

Schedules vary based on age and time of year.  The following schedule is typical during the school year (Summer break is less structured and more activity-oriented).

6:30- Wakeup and shower

7:00- Breakfast and chores

8:00- 3:00pm- School attendance

4:00- Study time and tutoring

5:30- Dinner

6:00- Campus activity (optional)

7:00- Character education programs, youth group or free time.

9:00- Bedtime

What activities do you offer the children?

There is a daily campus activity scheduled from 6:00-7:00pm from Monday through Thursday with activities ranging from soccer to yoga.  Hutton provides on-campus character education programs to include SALUTE, a service and leadership club, Odyssey, a team-based outdoor adventure club, and Journeys, a creative arts program for all kids.  Current residents are involved in a variety of off-campus activities including U.S. Figure Skating, YMCA swim team, Young Life, and West Valley athletics and band.  The Hutton campus has tennis courts, basketball courts, a swimming pool, hiking trails, a baseball field, playground equipment, an art studio, a music room, and a gymnasium to promote healthy activity.

Do you accept children from beyond the state of Washington.

Yes.

Do you accept large sibling groups?

Yes.  We go to great lengths to keep families together.  Many of our children have siblings also residing at Hutton.

Are you affiliated with a religious group?

No.  Hutton Settlement is non-sectarian. 

What if the child doesn’t want a placement at Hutton?

No child will be placed at Hutton without their consent.

Can residents get a job while at Hutton?

Yes.  We highly encourage outside employment to better prepare the resident for career development.  Our Director of Youth Development assists all high school residents with resume building, interview preparation and job searches.

How do you discipline the children at Hutton?

All staff are trained in the Common Sense Parenting method of discipline (www.parenting.org/common-sense-parenting), which focuses on effective praise, preventative teaching, corrective teaching, and teaching self-control.   Corporal punishment is prohibited.

What can a child bring when placed?

Children can bring personal items that are important in maintaining normalcy and comfort.  Children often bring pictures, toys, electronics, books, and other items to create a personalized space and to continue the pursuit of personal hobbies or interests.  Unfortunately, kids cannot bring their own pets, but many of the campus homes have a  “cottage” dog.

What happens when a child graduates or leaves Hutton?

Most go off to college or technical school, and all are provided life skills training, college and career preparation and support for that next step well before they graduate.  The Hutton Settlement “parents into adulthood”.  With ongoing guidance and counseling services, frequent invitations for dinner or special events, and consistent contact and follow up from staff, alumni are well connected to Hutton throughout their life.

How do I place my child at Hutton?

Contact the Hutton Settlement at 509-926-1027, and speak with our Intake Specialist.  The placement process can take from two to six weeks, and involves initial screening, an application, campus visit, and interview.

What if I still have questions?

If you still have questions about Hutton Settlement Children’s Home, fell free to contact us at 509-926-1027 and speak to our Intake Specialist.