Metropolitan Family Services

Metropolitan Family Services began its journey in 1857 as the Chicago Relief and Aid Society, founded by a group of prominent Illinois businessmen to help families navigate the devastating hardships of poverty, epidemics, and natural disasters. The organization played a pivotal role in the city's history, notably administering relief efforts after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, where it distributed nearly $5 million in donations and goods to victims. Over the decades, the organization evolved to meet the changing needs of the community. In 1909, it merged with the Bureau of Charities to form the United Charities of Chicago, expanding its reach and services. In 1995, the organization adopted its current name, Metropolitan Family Services, to better reflect its broad scope of support. Today, it stands as one of Illinois' largest and most respected human services agencies, empowering more than 100,000 families and individuals annually to learn, earn, heal, and thrive.