Our History
For over a century, Hoffman Homes has been dedicated to serving individuals and families in Pennsylvania. What began as one couple's gift of love has grown into a place where hundreds find hope, healing, and a path forward.
Our Beginning
A Gift of Love: The Hoffman Legacy
George and Agnes Hoffman were farmers in Littlestown, Pennsylvania, just south of Gettysburg. Though they loved children deeply, they never had any of their own. Wanting to leave a lasting legacy, they deeded their 192-acre farm to the Reformed Church (now the United Church of Christ) in 1907, with one heartfelt stipulation: upon their passing, the property must become a home for children in need.
On July 27, 1910, Hoffman Homes officially opened its doors. In those early decades, children grew up on a working farm, learning alongside one another and attending local public schools. It was a place rooted in community, purpose, and the simple belief that every child deserves a chance.
George W. and Agnes Hoffman
Growth
Evolving to Meet New Needs
By the mid-20th century, the needs of children and families in Pennsylvania were changing. The rise of the modern foster care system meant fewer children needed the traditional orphanage model. Rather than close its doors, Hoffman Homes adapted, opening its campus to young people referred through the courts who needed structure, guidance, and a safe place to grow.
During this chapter, the focus expanded to include life skills, vocational training, and preparing young people for successful futures. The campus that George and Agnes built continued to be a place of learning and possibility, evolving with the times while staying true to its founding mission of care.
Modern Era
Compassionate Care for a Brighter Tomorrow
In 1990, the Board of Directors guided Hoffman Homes through its most meaningful transformation yet. The organization became a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility, dedicating itself fully to serving young people and young adults (ages 7 to 21) with complex mental health needs. Many of the individuals who come to Hoffman Homes have experienced significant trauma, loss, or instability, and previous services have not been enough. Here, they find a community built around healing.
The original 192-acre farm now feels like a small college campus, with over 15 buildings including residences, a chapel, and a school. At the heart of everything is a trauma-informed, healing-centered approach that asks not "What is wrong with you?" but "What has happened to you?", building trust, empathy, and hope from day one.
A Message About Our Mission
Hear from Rebecca Van der Groef about the heart of Hoffman Homes and the vision that guides us forward.
Rebecca Van der Groef, CEO
A Full Continuum of Care
Today, Hoffman Homes offers a comprehensive range of services to meet individuals and families wherever they are on their journey.
Residential Treatment
24/7 therapeutic care in a safe, structured environment.
Learn MoreTherapeutic Shelter
Short-term stabilization for individuals in crisis.
Learn MoreTransitional Living
Building skills for independent living.
Learn MoreOutpatient Therapy
Accessible mental health care for the community.
Learn MoreHoffman Academy
Accredited private school, grades 1-12.
Learn MoreCreative Therapies
Equine, art, and horticulture therapy.
Learn MoreMedical Services
Comprehensive health care for every individual.
Learn MorePBIS
Positive behavioral support across all programs.
Learn MoreWhat began as one couple's gift of love continues to grow, touching hundreds of lives each year.
Be Part of Our Story
For over a century, generous supporters have helped Hoffman Homes serve individuals and families in need. Join us in writing the next chapter.