Childcare & Family · 49 resources
Child care subsidies, Head Start, after-school programs, and parenting support across Maine, listed by town.
Child care is one of the biggest costs for Maine families. The Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP) helps eligible families pay for care, and Child Care Choices can help you find licensed providers near you. Free Head Start and Early Head Start programs across the state offer early learning for young children at no cost.
Regional Head Start programs include Opportunity Alliance in the Portland area, Community Concepts in the Lewiston area, and York County Head Start. Use the city filter below to find child care and family support near you.
Maine DHHS
Helps eligible families pay for child care so parents can work, go to school, or participate in job training. Apply online or by phone.
York County Community Action Corp.
Free early childhood education for children 6 weeks to 5 years from low-income families, including health screenings and family support.
Penquis
Free Head Start and Early Head Start programs for children from low-income families in Penobscot and Piscataquis counties.
Community Concepts
Free Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Oxford and Androscoggin counties, with center-based and home-based options.
Maine DHHS
Free online tool to search licensed childcare providers in Maine including family daycares, centers, nursery schools, and Head Start programs.
The Opportunity Alliance
Free Head Start and Early Head Start programs for income-eligible families. Early childhood education for children ages 0–5.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine
After-school and summer programs for ages 7–18. Only $5 annual membership. No child turned away for inability to pay.
Maine Families
Free home visits for expectant parents and parents of newborns. Professional visitors provide parenting support, child development info, and resource connections.
Downeast Community Partners
Free Head Start and Early Head Start programs for income-eligible families in Hancock County. Early childhood education for ages 0–5.
Kennebec Valley Community Action Program
Free Head Start, Early Head Start, and child care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Serves Kennebec and Somerset counties.
Community Action in Aroostook, Washington & Hancock
Free Head Start and Early Head Start for income-eligible families. Locations in Machias, Calais, and Milbridge. Free meals provided.
Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayik
Federally funded tribal Head Start program providing free preschool education, child development services, nutrition, and cultural immersion for Passamaquoddy children and families.