Social services

“When families cannot access affordable, reliable care, it affects children, parents, employers and the broader community,” said the director.

The 11,000-square-foot facility, to be called United 4 Child Care, will open at 2 Stonewood Drive. The United Way of Southern Maine collaborated with the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce to create the new center.

Community Housing of Maine has appointed Kyra Walker to lead the nonprofit as executive director, following her service as interim executive director.

The 28,700-square-foot building is planned on the site of the now vacant Tortilla Flats restaurant at 1871 Forest Ave., and will consist of 33 studio apartments.

Nonprofit United 4 Child Care cut the ribbon this week on a new care facility in South Portland, the first of two new centers the organization will be opening in Cumberland County over the next few months.

Through corporate social responsibility, companies intentionally develop policies that give back to the community through environmental, ethical, philanthropic and economic initiatives.

Daniel Booth previously served more than 12 years on Maine Children's Home board of directors.

The need for more shelter beds and transitional housing has increased in recent years. Hope House is the only low-barrier shelter north of Waterville that offers health services and low-income housing programs.

The merger expands Waypoint’s presence in western Maine. The Progress Center’s programs and staff will continue under the Waypoint name.

The facility, a repurposed office building, has three times more classrooms than the Old Town location. Added capacity means more enrollment from rural areas.