Youth and Family Outreach

Youth and Family Outreach (YFO) offers early care and education, and support services for children six weeks to five years of age to families in Greater Portland. YFO is licensed by the state, accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and has received the highest rating for Maine's Quality Rating System. In addition, YFO was the first childcare provider that offered a public Pre-K program in partnership with the Portland Public schools, employing a high quality curriculum to ensure children are prepared to succeed in school, combined with wrap-around care.

YFO has a rich, unwavering history of meeting the needs of Portland's children and families. Since its origins in 1844, the agency has focused its efforts on a compassionate mission to serve the poor. Our mission is to create opportunities that support learning and enhance the quality of life for children, teens, and families in Greater Portland.

Our primary goal is to alleviate the affects of poverty for children and young families in greater Portland. Ideally located in the heart of the Bayside neighborhood, we are easily accessible to our priority clients: homeless and teen parents. Despite its high demand, YFO is committed to filling open childcare slots with families from the Young Parent Program, the Chestnut Street Family Shelter, and students from Portland High School, all within a half mile of the facility. No less than 60% of our children are living in poverty. Children receive three wholesome meals each day, and families have access to a wide variety of support and services via our knowledgeable staff, and social work intern.