Is there any sources of how orphanages function on Golarion? Would they typically be church run (grabbing up runaways to convert) or would some be run by the state?
I bet it depends on where the orphanage is in Golarion.
Chelish Orphanges are probably both church and state run. :P
No standard. Each organization will have its own way. Some may be like Fagan from Oliver Twist, some like the orphanage from Annie, or anything in between.
Most of the time I've seen mentions of orphanages in Golarion material, they've been church-run. Cayden Cailean in particular (and somewhat incongruously) is known for taking in a fair number of orphaned children, with many of them taking the surname Cailean out of respect.
Most of the time I've seen mentions of orphanages in Golarion material, they've been church-run. Cayden Cailean in particular (and somewhat incongruously) is known for taking in a fair number of orphaned children, with many of them taking the surname Cailean out of respect.
There's also that Asmodian sisterhood that runs orphanages in Cheliax - which must be fun places.
I think the Iconic Inquisitor grew up in an orphanage. Can't remember the god but church-run. Pharasma?
There's a demon lord whose followers like to secretly run them.