Objectives This study aims to deeply understand the meaning and essence of healing experiences among residential care workers who nurture and care for children in shelters for abused children. Methods Data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted twice between January and August 2024 with four residential care workers who have worked or are currently working in shelters for abused children. Semi-structured questions were employed, and Giorgi's phenomenological research method was utilized to focus on the workers' experiences. Results The findings revealed five main components and twenty subcomponents. The main components included: “Unintentionally Encountering a Place of Healing”, “Gradual Exposure to Painful Realities”, “The Gradual Sprouting of Love”, “Struggles and Small but Beautiful Fruits for Young Souls” and “The Fulfillment and Sense of Mission Sustaining Heavy Workloads”. Conclusions This study explores the essence of healing experiences among residential care workers in shelters, shedding light on the process through which abused children heal and recover to lead healthy daily lives. These findings contribute to understanding the significance, value, and fulfillment of the healing process in caregiving and serve as a practical foundation for social welfare practices.