Friends of St. Francis Childcare Center, early childcare education, subsidized childcare, San Francisco low income childcare

Our Mission

We provide comprehensive educationally based child care services in a culturally and economically diverse urban setting. The Center’s model promotes the physical, intellectual, and emotional well-being of the children served through active involvement of parents and support from the community.

Our Work

For nearly 50 years, Friends of St. Francis Child Care Center has provided high-quality, affordable childcare and innovative early education programs for the San Francisco community. Our inclusive early childhood education program welcomes children from all cultural and economic backgrounds, fostering an environment where they can thrive, learn, and grow. Licensed for ages two to five, the center currently enrolls eight toddlers and 30 preschoolers.

With a strong foundation in play-based, hands-on exploration, our experienced educators create a nurturing and engaging space that supports children's social-emotional development and long-term academic success. Parent engagement and family support are integrated throughout the programs. Through intentional teaching and a thoughtfully designed natural environment, we inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Parent tuition and four subsidy funding streams ensure families of all incomes can access our services, fostering a more inclusive community. Now, more than ever, we rely on continued funding to sustain this vital support.

Our hours of operation are 8:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday. We are open year-round, 245 days a year.

Our program includes breakfast, hot lunch, and a snack. This is provided at no extra cost through the United States Department of Agriculture Food Program.

Our History

Friends of St. Francis Child Care Center (“FOSF”) was founded in 1977 as a social justice ministry of St. Francis Lutheran Church and Friends Outside, supporting children of re-entry or incarcerated parents. St. Francis provided the facility at no cost, and neighborhood children were given second priority for enrollment.

In 1981, FOSF incorporated and received California Department of Education funding to subsidize low-income families while maintaining tuition-based spaces for socioeconomic diversity.