HCSS Foster Care
Clarvida Illinois supports children, youth, and families through foster care and community-based services designed to create safe, stable, and supportive environments for healing and growth. In Illinois, foster care services are provided through the HCSS Foster Care Program, a nonprofit program dedicated to helping children and families navigate difficult transitions and build stronger futures. Some families and partners may recognize these services from Camelot Care Centers, which previously operated these programs.
Our Mission
Today, the same mission continues as part of Clarvida’s broader national network of care — a mission to brighten lives and strengthen communities by delivering compassionate, person‑centered foster care and family services that inspire growth, healing, and long‑term wellbeing for every child and family we serve. The program continues to serve Illinois communities with the same commitment, experienced staff, and focus on helping children thrive.
Foster Care Services
Through the HCSS Foster Care Program, Clarvida Illinois supports children and youth who need safe, nurturing homes while they work toward reunification with their families or another permanent placement. Children entering foster care may have experienced trauma, instability, or loss. Our services are designed to provide stability, compassionate support, and the resources needed for healing and healthy development. Clarvida Illinois works closely with foster parents, child welfare partners, and community organizations to ensure every child receives the care and guidance they need.
Support for Foster Families
Support for foster families includes:
- Foster parent training and preparation
- Ongoing case management and coordination
- Access to counseling and therapeutic resources
- 24/7 support from program staff
- Community resources that support family stability
Our team works alongside foster parents every step of the way to support both caregivers and the children in their care.
Services for Youth and Families
In addition to foster care placement, Clarvida Illinois provides services designed to strengthen
emotional health, life skills, and family relationships.
- In‑Home Counseling – Counseling and therapeutic support delivered in the home or community to help youth and families address behavioral, emotional, and mental health challenges.
- Therapeutic Mentoring – Programs that help youth develop confidence, build social skills, and strengthen positive relationships.
- Family and Kinship Support – Services that help stabilize placements with relatives and strengthen family connections whenever possible.
- These services focus on helping youth develop the resilience and skills they need to succeed.
These services focus on helping youth develop the resilience and skills they need to succeed.
Why Families Trust Clarvida
Clarvida offers a trusted, clinically informed, and deeply supportive foster care experience, combining decades of expertise with a person-driven approach that empowers children and families to thrive. With accredited practices, highly trained specialists, and a statewide care network, we provide individualized, trauma-responsive services that foster stability, resilience, and meaningful connection. Families and youth can rely on Clarvida for guidance, consistency, and heartfelt partnership at every step of the journey.
Meet Our Team
Our foster care and child welfare work in Illinois is led by a compassionate and highly skilled team committed to creating safe, stable, and supportive environments for youth and families.
Ronica Patel
Executive Director
Salena Pesch-Tiddens
State Clinical Director
Kelley Lumpkin
State Licensing Director
Brooke Gems
Regional Director
Kala Davis
Regional Director
Ready to become a foster parent?
Opening your home to a child in need can change a life. Clarvida Illinois welcomes individuals and families who want to make a difference by becoming foster parents through the HCSS Foster Care Program. Our team provides guidance, training, and ongoing support throughout the entire foster care journey.
Contact Clarvida Illinois
To learn more about foster care services or becoming a foster parent in Illinois, contact our team today.
Your information is confidential and HIPAA-secure.