Provident, Inc., a United Way agency, began its service to the St. Louis community in 1860 and has been providing a wide range of services for nearly 150 years. Originally founded to provide short-term assistance while working with clients on long-term solutions, Provident has historically offered innovative programs that help individuals and families become productive members of the community.
In its early years, the St. Louis Provident Association provided material relief, housing, work opportunities and training, and nursing care. The Provident Association was a recognized and respected source of social services and was often the first organization called upon by civic leaders to render aid in times of need. The Provident Association answered the call in the aftermath of natural disasters (flooding and tornadoes) and during outbreaks of infectious diseases (cholera and smallpox). The Visiting Nurse Association started as a department of the Provident Association in response to such needs.
In the wake of riots in East St. Louis, the Provident Association started the Urban League department which soon became a free-standing agency.
In the years following the Great Depression, Provident (then known as Family and Children’s Services of Greater St. Louis) once again changed its focus in response to community needs. For a number of years the agency focused on adoption and foster care services while also developing a strong family and individual counseling department.
Though specific programs have changed over time, education and self-reliance have remained overriding themes to Provident's service provision.
Provident now views its role as a social service provider and innovator in serving families, underserved youth and impoverished neighborhoods throughout the region. Creating hope, self-reliance and social impact are the ultimate goals of the agency.
