In 1859, Silver Springs was established in the Germantown section of Philadelphia by Elizabeth Fry Ashmead Schaeffer with a single dollar and a singular conviction to serve and care for orphaned children. Elizabeth's program existed as a part of Lutheran Home at Germantown until, over 100 years later, the program moved to Silver Springs Farm in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania in 1972. George Silvers was the first child in residence. Today, while nonsectarian with regard to whom it serves, Silver Springs remains a Social Ministry Organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

In 1969, the Silver Springs program was expanded with the establishment of Martin Luther School, a state licensed Approved Private School designed to serve the special education needs of Silver Springs and community children. Decades later, many surrounding school districts call upon the services of Martin Luther School, which includes two classroom buildings housing a gymnasium, a library, a computer lab, an art room, a music room, and several outdoor recreational facilities.

Located on a picturesque 35-acre campus, Silver Springs - Martin Luther School offers a holistic approach to improving the developmental, emotional, educational, spiritual, and social well-being of children and families. A strong interdisciplinary philosophy guides and unites dedicated professionals in providing residential treatment, special education, treatment foster family care, and community based services.

The impact of these services on children and their families is substantial. Many children remain in touch long after their stay. They share their life events, visit occasionally, and some even return as adults to Silver Springs in the capacity of staff members. Today, Elizabeth Schaeffer's single dollar has grown into a thriving establishment that is dedicated to serving children and families, helping them to heal, grow, and see hope in their future.