Globally, houseparents serve as one of the primary emotional anchors for a number of children survivors sheltered inside a child care facility including the Philippines. However, while institutional focus remains on children’s recovery, it is timely relevant to delve the lived experiences of houseparents having direct contact with these children. This study explored the work life experiences of houseparents in a child care facility. Houseparents are residential caregivers that takes the role of parents in child care facilities. This study was conducted specifically in a Home for Girls in Leyte. Conducted between January and May 2024, the study delved into the experiences, challenges, coping strategies, and aspirations of houseparents. The researchers utilized qualitative phenomenological approach, using a validated interview guide. An in-depth interview and focused group discussion were conducted involving 10 houseparents with 3 years of working experience. Thematic analysis by Braun and Clark (2006) was utilized to analyze data. The results revealed finding meaning and fulfillment through hopeful transformation, navigating varied behavioral attitudes, seeking emotional relief through temporary isolation, and commitment in the face of uncertainties and instability. Building on these insights, it is recommended that national and local government units establish comprehensive support systems for houseparents, including sustained funding for psychological intervention programs that address occupational stress and emotional resilience. Regular and structured training modules should be institutionalized to strengthen competencies in managing diverse behavioral challenges among children in care. Furthermore, the implementation of secured tenure policies, equitable salary adjustments, and provision of adequate incentives are essential to promote stability and professional commitment within caregiving roles. Fostering active community engagement in child welfare initiatives will also reinforce collaborative responsibility and enhance the sustainability of residential care programs. Finally, future research should examine the impact of occupational stress on the work performance of houseparents, as well as the implications of insecure job tenure on the transitional development and sustainability of child care facilities.

Keywords: Houseparents, child care facilities, phenomenological study, occupational stress, tenure security, community engagement