Two leading human services providers serving youths in Iowa have agreed to merge into a yet-to-be named larger entity aimed at providing a stronger voice for children’s issues in Iowa. Youth Homes of Mid-America and Youth Emergency Services & Shelter announced this morning that each has received board approval to merge the organizations, effective July 30. The merger will benefit Iowa families, the state of Iowa, the Iowa Department of Human Services, Juvenile Court Services and the many stakeholders each organization independently serves, the two entities said in a news release. Leaders of the two nonprofits say the size, scale and potential impact of the merger are unprecedented for Iowa human service programs. “The need for children’s mental health services is increasing, and the demand for residential care continues to evolve,” said Doug Pearson, board president of Youth Homes of Mid-America, which is based in Johnston. “This changing dynamic requires agility in operations and new solutions that best serve children and families in need. Our combined organizations bring this opportunity to life.” The merger will also provide a “more significant and stronger voice for children’s issues,” said Travis Sheets, board president of YESS, based in Des Moines. “We are bringing together two long-standing organizations with stellar reputations to ensure the continued strength of the collective services we provide,” he said. With the introduction of the YHMA/YESS merger, the combined teams are beginning the process of naming the newly formed organization. A formal announcement and unveiling will happen in the coming months.