Over a Century of Caring

1870

Following a plea in the "Enterprise" a Saginaw newspaper from civic minded men and women who recognized the urgent need for organized care for the homeless children and the unfortunate in the community, leaders provided for the establishment of the East Saginaw Home for the Friendless and Industrial School (now Child & Family Service)

1898

A strong group of women created and were the signatories for the first Articles of Association and By-Laws for the Home. Some of these pioneers are still very familiar names in Saginaw County, e.g. Sarah Heavenrich, Fannie Wickes, Helen, Lula & Carrie Morley, Frances & Nancy Webber, Elizabeth Harvey, Sarah Draper, Mary Randall, Allaseba & May Bliss, Melchers, Sarah Potter, Charlotte Merrill, Etta Eddie Ewen, and Susan Hanchett.

Early 1900's

The Home for the Friendless was changed to The Children's Home of Saginaw-the purpose being, a private agency to provide temporary care for normal children from infancy to 12 years.

1958

The Family Society merged with the Children's Home in order to pool resources and provide better services to the community. The Family Society was largely involved in financial assistance to families in need.

1964

The Children's home was changed to Child & Family Service of Saginaw County, Inc to better reflect the services of the agency.

1970's

Child & Family Service met standards of accreditation bodies, and the Department of Public Health to begin providing outpatient counseling and substance abuse services.

1984

The Rape Crisis Center merged with C&FS and became the Sexual Assault Center. The Center provided 24/365 services to victims of any sexual trauma.

1993

The Board of Directors voted to separate the Employee Resource Service from the Family Counseling Program and let it stand alone.

2001

The Adoption Program closed, marking a significant end of our child welfare program.

Today

Child & Family Service continues to help individuals and families build better lives through its Counseling Center, Employee Wellness Center, and Sexual Assault Center.