Maryland Family Network

05/29/2026

Why should you watch Make A Circle? Because the first years of a child's life are critical, and the educators who guide them deserve our attention and respect. 🧡

Join us and watch this powerful film, then stay for a conversation about the vital role early education plays in our community. Led by Maryland Family Network Executive Director, Laura Weeldreyer, and our panel of experts. This event is FREE with registration. Get your tickets now! https://buff.ly/gQ0qQGN

05/26/2026

Strong programs start with strong people.

Patty Center staff and parent leaders came together for our annual Spring Training & Conference — a day to build skills, share what's working, and connect with others doing this work across Maryland.

For our early childhood professionals, that means practical tools and new ideas they can bring back to the families they serve. For our parent leaders, it's a chance to grow, find their voice, and learn from each other.

Both matter. When providers are stronger, families are better supported. When parents lead, communities change.

Take a look at a few highlights from the day. 💙

05/21/2026

Diapers and tampons are basics — but for many families with young children, they're not always easy to come by.

This Mother's Day, MFN board member Cristin Marsh organized a supply drive through the Outreach Committee at St. David's Episcopal Church in Roland Park, Baltimore. Their generosity means these essentials will go directly to families in our community who need them.

Thank you to Cristin, the Outreach Committee, and everyone at St. David's who gave. This is what community showing up for community looks like. 💙

05/20/2026

Join us for a meaningful night out! 🌇 Maryland Family Network and GatherRound are hosting a special screening of Make A Circle, an award-winning film that dives deep into the heart of early childhood education. This isn't just a movie—it’s an opportunity to connect with fellow community members and discuss the future of child care in Maryland. A panel discussion led by Laura Weeldreyer, MFN's Executive Director, will follow the film. Register today! https://buff.ly/gQ0qQGN

05/13/2026

Are you interested in learning more about the child care legislative updates and how it will impact your business? If so, please join the Family Tree for an information session today from 1:30pm-2:30p.

Join here https://buff.ly/8M8TC7m

05/11/2026

Shannelle’s son Nolan attends the Our House Early Head Start Center, operated by Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, in Cherry Hill. What has had the biggest impact on Shannelle's family at the Center? That's easy. It's the amazing staff.

The Our House Early Head Start Center operated by Goodwill is a federally funded program for children from six weeks to 36 months. The center provides comprehensive individualized early education experiences to enhance children’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive development. Pre-natal sup...

05/06/2026

Are you interested in learning more about the child care legislative updates and how it will impact your business? If so, please join the Family Tree for an information session on Wednesday, May 13th from 1:30pm-2:30p.

Join here https://buff.ly/8M8TC7m

05/06/2026

In Prince George's County, child care costs rose by over 20% between 2017 and 2025. This week, the County Council took a stand for families by passing four landmark bills to address affordability and accessibility.

MFN’s Mike Herschenfeld, Chief Impact Officer, spoke with The Diamondback about the systemic challenges families face and the importance of simplifying a complex system to truly help those in need.

We are proud to see MFN’s expertise helping shape the conversation and the future of early childhood education in Maryland.

Check out the full article here: https://dbknews.com/2026/04/23/prince-georges-council-passes-package-child-care/

The bills offer financial support to providers, create scholarships for families, add protections to child care contracts and increase overall outreach.

05/01/2026

Child care keeps Maryland’s workforce and economy running, and caregivers are the backbone of that system. Honor a working mother, stepmother, or grandmother in your life with a meaningful gift this year. Donate to MFN by May 1, and we will send a customized card on your behalf. Support a respected organization that builds strong families: https://buff.ly/W8qqkCD. Strong Starts. Strong Futures.

04/30/2026

A strong start changes everything. This Mother’s Day, honor the women and caregivers who laid the foundation for your success. By making a donation to Maryland Family Network by May 1, we will mail a special edition, personalized card on your behalf. Your gift helps us connect families to early-years support. Make a Mother's Day gift today at https://buff.ly/TWuuVMZ . Strong Starts. Strong Futures.