Maryvale, a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles, celebrates 169 years of transforming lives. Since its founding in 1856, Maryvale has been a cornerstone of support for vulnerable children and families, offering child welfare programs, mental health services, and community resources. Through its rich history, Maryvale continues to meet the changing needs of the community, fostering hope and stability for generations.
The Origins of Maryvale: Supporting Vulnerable Families Since 1856
In 1856, the Daughters of Charity recognized the urgent need for orphan care in Los Angeles, establishing the city’s first orphanage at the Wilson House. At a time when poverty, disease, and lack of facilities left many children without support, this act of compassion marked the beginning of Maryvale’s legacy.
By 1891, Maryvale moved to Boyle Heights to address the growing urban demand for its services. Despite challenges like earthquakes and freeway expansion, the community’s resilience ensured Maryvale continued its vital work.
In 1953, Maryvale relocated to Rosemead, embracing a broader vision that expanded its focus beyond orphan care. This transition symbolized a new chapter, introducing comprehensive programs for families in need.
Transition and New Directions: Expanding Maryvale’s Mission Beyond Orphan Care
Over the years, Maryvale has evolved from its origins as an orphanage into a multifaceted service provider addressing the needs of children and families in crisis. Recognizing that families require more than basic care, Maryvale expanded its offerings to include early childhood education, mental health services, and temporary housing programs.
This shift in focus reflected an increasing awareness that children and families need a strong foundation for long-term success, encompassing emotional support, education, and housing stability.
One of the most significant milestones in this transformation was the opening of Maryvale’s first Early Education Center in 1968. Initially supporting children in residential care, the center soon expanded its reach to serve the broader community. Early childhood education has proven essential in preventing abuse and neglect while fostering positive child development.
Key Milestones in Maryvale’s History: Expanding Early Education and Support Services
Maryvale’s commitment to serving children and families in crisis has been marked by key milestones that demonstrate its adaptability and growth:
1968: Opening of the First Early Education Center
Maryvale opened its first early education center to support children in residential care, later expanding its reach to serve the broader community. Early childhood education has since become a cornerstone of Maryvale’s mission, helping to prevent abuse, neglect, and promote positive child development.
1999: Expansion to Duarte
To meet the increasing demand for quality education, Maryvale launched its second Early Education Center in Duarte, providing critical support for young children and families in the region.
2011: Family Resource Center
Recognizing the evolving needs of families, Maryvale opened a Family Resource & Early Education Center, offering expanded programs and support services that empower families and strengthen communities
2019: Residential Treatment Program Transition
Maryvale’s residential treatment program for girls transitioned into a short-term residential therapeutic program (STRTP) to align with new legal standards. This shift ensured continued, high-quality care for young girls experiencing instability.
2020: Graduation of Residential Program
After decades of success, Maryvale celebrated the final graduation of its residential treatment program, marking the culmination of years of dedicated care for girls while maintaining its focus on addressing root causes of family instability.
2022: Seton House for Mothers and Children
In response to the growing need for housing solutions, Seton House officially welcomed its first family in 2022. This program provides essential temporary housing and critical support for women and children, helping them regain stability and independence
The Power of Community Support
Maryvale’s success is made possible through the unwavering support of donors, partners, and volunteers. Organizations such as the Los Angeles Orphanage Guild and the Carrie Estelle Doheny Foundation have been instrumental in funding vital programs like early childhood education, mental health services, and housing solutions.
Your support directly impacts Maryvale’s ability to provide essential resources to families in need. Learn how you can make a difference by donating or volunteering to help build a brighter future for children and families.
visit our donation page To learn more about how you can get involved
Latest Achievements: Impact for Fiscal Year 23-24
At Maryvale, we are dedicated to creating brighter futures for children and families through our comprehensive programs. Over the past year, we have made meaningful strides in key areas, impacting over 740 families in our community. Here’s a snapshot of the significant achievements that highlight the strength and commitment of our team and partners:
- Temporary Housing: An incredible 74% of mothers in our temporary housing program achieved stable, long-term living arrangements. This success reflects our unwavering commitment to empowering families with the resources and support they need to regain stability and independence.
- Early Education: With a 99% satisfaction rate, our early education programs continue to earn high praise from families. This accomplishment underscores our mission to provide young children with a strong educational foundation for success in school and life.
- Mental Health: In 2024, 97% of individuals who received mental health care through Maryvale avoided the need for higher levels of treatment. This achievement demonstrates the effectiveness of our trauma-informed, compassionate approach to mental health.
- Connections by Maryvale: Since its launch in September 2023, this vital program has provided families with essential resources to combat substance abuse. By June 2024, 150 youth participated in drug and alcohol education programs, equipping them with the knowledge to make healthier, informed choices.
- Maryvale at Epiphany Parish: January 2024 marked the opening of our newest location at Epiphany Parish, offering an additional hub for early education and family services, expanding our reach and impact within the community.
These outcomes are a testament to Maryvale’s team's dedication and the strength of our partnerships with the community.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Maryvale’s Future
Maryvale’s mission continues to grow as we embark on our 2025–2027 strategic plan. We are dedicated to expanding programs that address the critical needs of children, families, and youth, including enhanced housing solutions, advanced mental health programs, and specialized support services.
- Harvard House: Scheduled to open in Spring 2025, Harvard House will provide safe, stable housing for college-enrolled students experiencing housing insecurity. By offering a supportive environment, this initiative will empower students to focus on their education and future success without the barrier of housing instability.
- Temporary Housing Expansion: Launching in Winter 2025, this expansion will increase Maryvale’s capacity to provide temporary housing solutions for families in crisis, ensuring more families have access to critical resources and support.
These initiatives represent our unwavering commitment to creating pathways of stability, opportunity, and hope. By addressing housing insecurity and family hardship, Maryvale is equipping individuals with the tools they need to build brighter futures.
A Legacy of Service and a Vision for the Future
For 169 years, Maryvale has been a beacon of compassion and hope, dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families. Rooted in a deep commitment to service, our mission has always centered on providing essential care, support, and opportunities to those who need it most.
This enduring legacy has been built on a foundation of compassion, resilience, and community partnerships, ensuring that every child and family we serve has a chance for a brighter, more stable future.
As we look ahead, our vision remains clear: to expand our impact by providing innovative programs, housing solutions, and mental health services that empower families to overcome challenges and thrive. Yet, we cannot do this alone.
Your support—whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy—plays a critical role in sustaining Maryvale’s work. Together, we are building pathways to brighter futures and continuing a legacy of hope that spans generations.
