Bridges Healthcare and Family Centered Services of CT intend to unify under one organization and expand their services across the greater New Haven area.
“With a combined 118 years of experience and a shared commitment to serving vulnerable populations, this union will bring together two established and trusted organizations with deep roots in the community,” the organizations said in a joint release. “The alignment will enhance access to care, broaden service offerings and create a more comprehensive, coordinated continuum of support for those facing complex behavioral health and social challenges.”
Bridges Healthcare, founded in 1957, is the state-designated local mental health authority for Milford, Orange and West Haven, providing recovery-focused mental health and addiction services for individuals and families. As a federally recognized certified community behavioral health clinic, Bridges offers integrated, whole-family care and treatment.
Family Centered Services of CT, founded in 1977, provides trauma-informed, community-based services and is based in New Haven. The agency supports children and families impacted by challenges, including domestic violence, child abuse, homelessness, intergenerational poverty and special needs, offering a range of prevention, education, parenting and empowerment programs.
Under the planned integration, Family Centered Services of CT will continue its work as a division of Bridges Healthcare, maintaining its established name in the community.
“We have worked with Family Centered Services of CT for many years and truly value their work and commitment to the community,” said Jennifer Fiorillo, president and CEO of Bridges Healthcare, who will lead the unified organization. “By coming together, our combined strengths and naturally aligned missions will enable us to better meet the complex needs of the individuals and families we serve.”
The transition comes at a time when Family Centered Services of CT prepares for the planned retirement of Executive Director Jacquelyn Farrell. Leadership from both organizations will work collaboratively over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition that prioritizes continuity of care and support for clients, staff and community partners with no disruption to programs or services.
“This unification reflects our shared vision and years of partnership,” Farrell said. “I believe the synergy created by this combination will enhance and expand the services and supports available to those we serve and reach even more families in need.”
The combined organization will offer approximately 30 programs and services across greater New Haven. The integration is expected to be effective this summer. During the transition period, both agencies will continue to operate as usual while working closely to align services and operations.