OUR MISSION

One hundred and fifty-three years ago, in 1863, a group of Meadville women joined together to help local families experiencing financial crises. The “men folk” were away fighting the Civil War and their families were left without a wage earner. The soldiers’ pay that was to be sent home, arrived sporadically and infrequently. Additionally, widows and orphans were also left without resources. The women gathered food and clothing for the families, distributing them to those in need. Besides seeing to the needs of the soldiers’ families they also held blanket drives, collected bandages and food stores and sent them to the war front. Thus the Home Relief Society was born.

Today the name is different, but the mission remains the same. We are still aiding families experiencing a crisis. The Center for Family Services continues to fulfill our community’s legacy by providing food and clothing. As our name has changed, the variety of services the agency provides has evolved. Over the years, members of our community have seen and responded to the changing times and needs of our Crawford County families. Today those services include: counseling for homeowners, classes for parents, and other services that meet the basic needs of families.

We celebrate the vision of that original group of women and those who have followed in their footsteps. Most of all, we celebrate the Crawford County community, with our deep rooted sense of giving. Here’s to the next 150 years of helping families in need, together.