About Maryland Family Network
Maryland Family Network (MFN) works to ensure every young child in Maryland has the strong foundation they need to learn, grow, and succeed. We believe that when children thrive, Maryland thrives — and that child care and family support are essential infrastructure for a healthy, equitable state.
Our Mission
We mobilize networks across Maryland to ensure young children and those who care for them have the resources and equitable opportunities to thrive.
Our Vision
A Maryland where every child has a strong and equitable foundation to thrive in their first five years and beyond.
What We Do
Family Support & Early Learning
We operate a statewide network of Family Support Centers and Early Head Start programs that provide free, high-quality supports for families with infants and toddlers.
These centers help parents build stability, strengthen parenting skills, and support their children’s healthy development.
Child Care Access & Quality
We connect families to child care through LOCATE: Child Care and help providers build strong, sustainable programs through coaching, professional development, and technical assistance.
Advocacy & Systems Change
We amplify the needs of families and early educators at every level of government. Through research, partnerships, and policy leadership, we work to ensure child care is treated as the essential investment it is.
Learn More About Our Work
From family programs to pilots, studies, lectures, and partnerships, MFN’s work spans a wide range of audiences and areas. Explore how we help Maryland strengthen families, support providers, and help communities give every child a strong start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maryland Family Network a state government agency?
No, we are an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We work closely with and receive funding from many government agencies, but we are not a state entity.
Where is Maryland Family Network located?
We are located at 1800 Washington Blvd., Suite 445 Baltimore, MD 21230 and can be reached at (410) 659-7701 or via email at: info@marylandfamilynetwork.org
Is Maryland Family Network nonpartisan?
Yes. As a 501(c)(3) organization, Maryland Family Network does not support or oppose candidates for public office.
Where can I find data on child care in Maryland?
The “For Advocates” section of our website is your home for data and reports.
Do you accept donated items?
Yes! Donations of new children’s books and educational toys are welcome. Visit our Wish List on Amazon.com to find out which books and toys our program experts recommend. Supplies that are needed on a regular basis for our many training programs can also be found on our Wish List. If you want to donate additional items, please contact us to determine if our programs will be able to accept the items.
I want to help! Does MFN have volunteer positions?
We are always searching for people to expand our network! From becoming a First Steps Ambassador to advocating for work we do, there are many ways to get involved with our mission.
How can I find child care near me?
Visit our LOCATE: Child Care page to begin your search now. LOCATE: Child Care is a free service that allows you to search for all regulated child care programs in Maryland. You can search by cost, availability, Child Care Scholarship acceptance, special needs services, and more.
Does Maryland Family Network offer child care?
Maryland Family Network is the leading provider of training and technical assistance opportunities for child care professionals in the state but we do not provide child care. We also advocate for state and national policies that strengthen the child care community and expand the availability of child care.
What resources do you have for child care providers?
MFN is the state coordinating entity for the Maryland Child Care Resource Network (MCCRN). The MCCRN offers training and professional development, as well as technical assistance, Business Support, and other help for new or veteran child care professionals. Explore the “For Providers” section of our site to find your local Child Care Resource Center and see a full list of services.
How do I update my program's information on LOCATE: Child Care?
Keeping your LOCATE profile up to date is one of the best ways to connect with families searching for care. You can update your program’s vacancies, hours, and services by logging into your provider portal or by contacting your local Child Care Resource Center.
What is MFN’s Early Head Start Network?
MFN coordinates the state’s largest network of Early Head Start (EHS) centers. These are comprehensive, “two-generational” support services for families to promote healthy child development and family self-sufficiency. EHS serves low-income pregnant women and families with young children, specifically from six weeks through three years old. Early Head Start is available at no cost to families who meet federal income eligibility guidelines. Learn more and find an EHS center near you.
What is the Network of Patty Center - Family Support Programs?
MFN’s Patty Center – Family Support Programs are community-based programs that help parents and children learn and grow together. They provide services—completely free of charge—that help parents become more self-sufficient, learn new parenting skills, and connect with other families. At the same time, children get high-quality early learning experiences. Use our website to find a Family Support Center in your community.
What is the history behind the Patty Center - Family Support Programs Network?
Patricia “Patty” Kirwan was the wife of Dr. William “Brit” Kirwan, who chaired the Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education. Mrs. Kirwan passed away in 2018, and the Network is named in her honor.
The Family Support Center movement emerged in Maryland in 1985 as a response to trends of rising infant mortality, teen pregnancy rates, child abuse reports, and the increasing placement of children in foster care. Initial funding for these centers was secured through a collaborative public-private partnership involving the Maryland Department of Human Resources, the Morris Goldseker Foundation, and the Aaron and Lillie Straus Foundation. Friends of the Family was established in 1986 as an intermediary organization to develop the movement further and ensure consistent quality across centers. This work continued and evolved, eventually leading to the formation of MFN in 2009 through a merger between Friends of the Family and the Maryland Committee for Children.
What is the history behind the Maryland Child Care Resource Network (MCCRN)?
The Maryland Child Care Resource Network was founded in 1989 as a pilot program in a rural, urban, and suburban setting which brought together public and private funding. For over 35 years, the Network has evolved in structure, but the core services and commitment to supporting child care providers remain steadfast. Ensuring every child care program has access to the professional development and coaching services needed to provide high-quality and accessible child care remains the cornerstone of the MCCRN.