Maine’s Deaf Community is grieving deeply. We lost four of our cherished community members in last night’s Lewiston shootings, two of which were fathers of children in our educational programs. Our community is incredibly tight-knit, full of heart and pride. The fact that these men were together is who we are. Togetherness is what makes us strong and will hold us during this devastating time. The lives of those lost in the shooting will never be forgotten. We are holding their families, loved ones, and our community in our hearts. - 10/26/23, Karen Hopkins, Executive Director.

Resources for dealing with trauma are available HERE Donate to victims' families

Children 0 – 2

Children Ages 0 until their 3rd birthday

Early Intervention and Family Services (EIFS), in collaboration with Maine Child Development Services (CDS), supports families and professionals statewide to ensure optimal services for children who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families. We provide comprehensive, unbiased information to support families in making informed decisions that match their values and priorities, and ensure support to help meet their outcomes on their Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Early Intervention Specialists (EIS) from MECDHH provide services in the child’s natural environments, including their home and child care settings. EIFS are available to families of deaf or hard of hearing children from birth until their third birthday.

Refer a Child

Earliest Interactions Federal Grant Program

Home Visits

Exploration of Language and Communication Opportunities (ELCO)

Consultation Services

ASL for Families

Quick Links