New Year, new Agency

Rochester, NY… After a year of planning, Catholic Family Center and Catholic Charities Community Services have merged to form Catholic Charities Family and Community Services.

The combined entity will continue to serve clients across all stages of life, with services and programs that enable independence and promote human dignity. These services and programs span refugee resettlement to services assisting vulnerable individuals and families, supporting people on their journey to independence. Both agencies have highly respected housing programs serving those seeking shelter, those needing residential support in their addiction recovery, and those living with disabilities and significant health challenges.

“Serving together, the staff will continue the legacy of a combined 140 years of compassionate service to the most vulnerable individuals and families living in the city of Rochester, as well as throughout all 12 counties of the Diocese of Rochester,” says Lori VanAuken, President and CEO of the merged entity. “We look forward to utilizing best practices from both organizations and leveraging our many partnerships throughout the region to make the client experience even more successful for the people we have the privilege of serving.”

VanAuken adds, “Much of the work required to bring our staff, processes, and community presence together was supported by a generous Synergy Grant from the United Way of Greater Rochester to support the implementation of this mission. We are very grateful to Jaime Saunders (President & CEO) and her team.”

The newly joined non-profit agency will operate services and programs representing nearly $50M. The combined agency will provide clients with easier access to a wider range of services and enable staff to offer more comprehensive care and treatment options in a more efficient delivery model.

Read the detailed Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester announcement of the merger, and Marlene Bessette’s retirement.

About Catholic Charities Family and Community Services: Catholic Charities Family and Community Services provides housing, employment, and coordination of care to help people of all ages and all walks of life live independently with dignity, while facing the challenges of addiction, aging, mental illness, HIV, poverty, developmental disability, and immigration.