Caritas Family Solutions and Human Support Services (HSS) announced that they will be merging, uniting their missions and programs under the Caritas Family Solutions umbrella to better serve communities across Southern Illinois and the Metro East.
Caritas Family Solutions currently supports more than 6,300 individuals annually through programs including foster care, adoption, senior living services, homes for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and family support initiatives.
HSS provides services to more than 1,200 annually, with a strong legacy in mental health and substance use treatment, residential supports, and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The Boards of Directors for both Caritas and HSS have carefully and thoughtfully decided to join forces to expand their collective impact and ensure sustainable, high-quality services for the future.
To help offset the operational costs associated with this merger, Caritas proactively secured grant support from two generous nonprofit partners: the SeaChange
Lodestar Fund for Nonprofit Collaboration and YouthBridge Community Foundation.
“By coming together, we are uniting two organizations that share a deep commitment to compassionate, person centered care,” said Gary Huelsmann, Illinois Partners’ Board member and Chief Executive Officer of Caritas Family Solutions. “This partnership strengthens our ability to meet the growing needs of our communities, expands the range of services we provide, and positions us to advocate even more effectively for those we serve.”
Importantly, no major changes to staffing are anticipated as a result of the merger. Caritas and HSS leadership teams are working closely to ensure a smooth and thoughtful integration, with a focus on maintaining continuity of care for all clients and communities. Together, the combined agency will have a projected annual budget of approximately $62 million and will employ roughly 570 dedicated professionals, including social workers, case managers, therapists, and direct care staff.
Anne Riley, President and CEO of Human Support Services, shared her optimism for the future, “This merger represents an exciting and positive step forward for the people we serve and our dedicated staff,” Riley said.
“Caritas and HSS are deeply aligned in our missions and values. Together, we will create a stronger, more connected network of support, introduce new youth and community outreach opportunities in Monroe County, and build upon the strengths each organization brings.”
The merger is expected to be finalized by October 1, 2025. You can read more in the Illinois Business Journal article or the press release.
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