In 2000, El Ranchito de los Niños was founded by Mike and Kathy Mechenbier, local ranchers and farmers who saw a need to provide a permanent home for sibling groups who were separated in foster care. The children of El Ranchito are raised as a family in a rural farm setting, taught responsibility and educated as a means of building a foundation and breaking the cycle. The home is a non-profit charity 100% funded by private donations, licensed by the State of New Mexico CYFD and certified by the New Mexico Christian Child Care Association. El Ranchito accepts all children regardless of sex, ethnicity, religion or disability. What Makes El Ranchito Unique: • Accept children of all ages (0-18 years) • Accept sibling groups • Long term placement (many children stay 10 years+) • Placement can be voluntary, private or court referred • Provide transition services such as job training, workforce or college once a child has turned 18 • Home apartment available for children over 18 for sibling visits, holiday breaks, etc., El Ranchito is located in Los Lunas, New Mexico just south of Albuquerque. The 7,200 sq ft ranch home is nestled among 23 acres of rural farm land and home to several animals that are integrated into our program. The kitchen, living areas and house offices are centrally located in the home. Separate boys and girls wings are located on opposite ends of the main living space. The home also includes a two bedroom apartment in each wing, as well as an additional apartment available for former child residents to stay during sibling visits, college breaks, etc.,

Non-profit children's home dedicated to keeping brothers & sisters together who might otherwise be separated in foster care.