The Board of Directors of Seneca Family of Agencies is pleased to announce a merger with Kinship Center, a respected statewide leader in the provision of adoption and permanency services for abused, neglected and abandoned children. The merger of these two education, mental health and social service nonprofit agencies adds another dimension to Seneca’s efforts to sustain children and families through their most difficult times. Together, the merged organizations offer a statewide reach, serving children and families from Los Angeles to Sonoma County. 

“The joining of these two organizations creates one of the most comprehensive service systems for children and families in California,” said Seneca CEO and founder Ken Berrick. “Young people who may have struggled educationally, suffered abuse and neglect, or be coping with mental illness will now have access to an extremely broad array of services, ranging from a therapeutic preschool, to intensive family support programs in the community, to intensive crisis intervention and hospital-type programs. Like Seneca, Kinship Center brings to this partnership a distinguished history of service to children and families with the most exceptional needs.”

Kinship Center co-founder Carol Biddle, who has led the Monterey County-based agency since its inception in 1984, will serve on Seneca’s executive leadership team. “Both of our organizations are dedicated to ensuring that every child has the chance for a safe and secure future,” said Biddle. “Together we will have a powerful presence and the capacity to offer the broadest scope of mental health and social services to troubled and traumatized children and to families. This new partnership will be a tremendous asset to communities throughout California.” 

For information on Seneca’s programs and services, visit www.senecacenter.org or call (510) 654-4004.