Since 1856 Maryvale has cared for orphaned, abused and neglected children, evolving into a social welfare organization, nurturing traumatized youth in the foster care system. Founded by the Daughters of Charity in the mid-1800s, Maryvale is the oldest children's charity in Los Angeles and the first orphanage in the region. Maryvale's programs now include a 24-hour, mental health services-based Residential Program for severely abused girls, ages 13 to 18 and a 24-hour Emergency Placement Center that provides mental health and assessment services in a safe and caring environment for 6 to 12 year old boys and girls; a Community-Based Services Program to strengthen and support struggling families; and two Early Education Centers.