Who We Are

One of the oldest charities in the country, Children's Friend and Family Services was founded as the Salem Seamen's Orphans Society, in 1837, as a home for youth whose fathers were lost at sea. It was founded by members of the Tabernacle Church of Salem. Over the next century it became the home for youth whose families were stricken by poverty, or illness or death. The agency was committed to raising strong youth, able to care for themselves and their families. Its name changed, to the Salem Seamen's Orphans and Children's Friend Society.

In the early 20th century, the orphanage was closed. The agency, then named the Children's Friends and Family Service Society, became an adoption agency and a "friendly home visitor” agency, working to strengthen families.

Over the last 20 years, the agency has changed again in response to the needs of youth and families, developing counseling, mentoring, day care and juvenile court services, and becoming a county-wide organization, with offices in Lynn, Salem, Gloucester, Amesbury, Haverhill and Lawrence. Its programs now serve over 4,500 youth and family members yearly.

But throughout its 170 year history, its mission- strengthening children and families- has remained unchanged. And throughout these years it has honored its charitable mission of serving those most in need.