What if your family could change children's lives — every single day?
Milton Hershey School is looking for married couples ready to become houseparents. Free housing, free meals, ~$168K total package, and the most meaningful work of your life.
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Couples on Campus
~$168K
Total Package
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Years of Impact
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Students Served
Every child deserves a loving home.
You could be that home.
For over 130 years, Milton Hershey School has provided a cost-free, nurturing home and world-class education to children from families with limited income.
At the heart of this mission are houseparent couples — married pairs who live on campus and create the stability, warmth, and daily care that transforms young lives.
This isn't a job posting. It's an invitation to do the most meaningful work of your life.
A day in the life of a houseparent
Morning Together
The smell of breakfast fills the home. Students shuffle in, sleepy-eyed. You pour cereal, pack lunches, share a few laughs before the school bus arrives.
Your Time
While students are at school, the day is yours. Run errands, exercise, rest, or simply enjoy the quiet of your private apartment on a beautiful campus.
Family Dinner
Everyone gathers around the table. You cook together, talk about the day, celebrate small victories. This is the moment many houseparents say they love most.
Goodnight
Homework done, teeth brushed, stories shared. You tuck them in knowing you’ve given them something many never had before — a stable, loving home.
The Complete Package
Everything is provided. Here's what that looks like.
| Base Salary (combined) | $89,536 |
| Housing | Provided free |
| Meals | Provided on duty |
| Medical, Dental, Vision | Day 1 |
| Life Insurance | Included |
| 403(b) Retirement | Included |
| Relocation | Fully covered |
| Training | Paid in full |
| Total Annual Value | $164,536+ |
This Isn't Just a Career.
It's a Calling.
When you become a houseparent, you're not just taking a job — you're building a family. You'll share meals, celebrate milestones, and be there for the moments that matter. For many students, you'll be the first stable, loving presence they've ever known.
Whether You're Ready Today or Just Curious,
There's a Place for You
Most of our houseparent couples took months to decide. That's not just OK — it's smart. Choose whatever feels right for you right now.
Where Are You in Your Journey?
Choose your path — we'll meet you where you are.
No commitment at any step. Change your mind anytime. We're here when you're ready.
We believe in transparency. Here are the real questions couples ask — and honest answers.
The Questions Every Couple Asks
You work 9 days on, then get 3 full days completely off. During your on-days, mornings start at 6:30 AM with breakfast, students go to school from 8 AM to 3 PM (this is your personal time), and evenings are family time with dinner, activities, and bedtime. During your 3 days off, relief houseparents take over and you’re completely free.
Yes! Milton Hershey School recently updated their policy. Couples with up to 3 biological children can now serve as houseparents. Your children live with you in the private apartment section of the student home and attend local schools.
There’s no long-term contract locking you in. MHS provides a thorough 4-month onboarding process to make sure it’s the right fit for both you and the school. If you decide it’s not for you, the transition is supported — you’re not stranded.
Houseparents lead daily devotions and attend non-denominational Sunday chapel with students. This is a Judeo-Christian tradition at the school. However, proselytizing is strictly prohibited. The focus is on values, character, and community — not converting students.
It can be demanding, which is why MHS invests heavily in support. You get 3 full days off every cycle, a peer support network of 250+ couples, access to mental health resources, and a community that understands exactly what you’re going through. Many houseparents say the schedule and support make this more sustainable than traditional social work roles.
Both spouses must be employed as houseparents — this is a joint role. Neither partner can maintain outside employment during the position. This is one of the biggest considerations for couples, and it’s important to discuss together before applying.
The process takes approximately 4 months: (1) Online application, (2) Phone screening, (3) Two-day on-campus experience where you visit a student home, tour campus, and have a formal interview, (4) Background check and home interview, (5) Reference verification. Every step is designed to help both you and MHS ensure it’s the right fit.
Comprehensive paid training is provided before you’re placed with students. Training covers child development, trauma-informed care, household management, medication administration, and the school’s approach to student care. You’re never thrown in without preparation.
This Is a Decision You Make Together
A decision like this deserves a real conversation. Share this page with your spouse, talk it through together, and reach out whenever the time feels right.
We'll be here.
Ready or not, we'd love to hear from you
Whether you're ready to apply today or just want to stay in the loop, there's a next step that feels right.
No obligation at any step. Applying is just the first conversation.