Our History
Waypoint boasts a rich history of contributions to New Hampshire’s social safety network, dating back to 1850 when we emerged as the Manchester City Missionary Society. Our longevity showcases our ability to adapt and respond to the changing needs of individuals, families, and communities. We are proud to have cemented ourselves as an integral part of New Hampshire, and we remain committed to agility in support of the ever-changing needs of New Hampshire folks and communities.
Evolution Through the Eras
Waypoint, was established in 1850 as the Manchester City Missionary Society. Initially focused on the spiritual well-being of the community, we soon expanded our efforts to include charitable endeavors such as distributing food, clothing, and fuel to families in need. As the societal landscape evolved, so did the organization’s mission, branching out into initiatives like the Fresh Air Camp, Sewing Circles, and immigration services.
In 1914, we evolved, and the New Hampshire Children’s Aid and Protective Society (NHCAPS) was established to address the pressing issue of child abuse and neglect, marking a significant milestone in child welfare in the state. Transitioning through the decades, our role adjusted with the increasing involvement of the state in child protection, prompting a reevaluation of our mission to focus on broader child and family welfare initiatives. By 1967, NHCAPS transformed into Child and Family Services (CFS), expanding our reach and services. The subsequent merger of the Manchester and Concord service organizations in 1971 further solidified our position as a leading provider of human services in New Hampshire.
The evolution continued, culminating in the rebranding to Waypoint in 2018. The name Waypoint represents our support and guidance along the journey towards safe and healthy communities, and signifies a new chapter in our mission to empower a wide range of individuals and families through human services and advocacy.
Our Present and Our Future
Waypoint is proud to serve New Hampshire and we are passionate about our path forward. Our current programs exemplify a uniquely diverse array of support and offerings, from prenatal services, to shelters for unhoused youth, to support for our community’s seniors. We are truly a lifeline across the lifespan, as our mission is to empower people of all ages through an array of human services and advocacy. We continue to be committed to adaptability, transparency, and tangible support to children, individuals, and families in New Hampshire.
We look forward to our next chapter as we work to create a community in which all people have an opportunity to thrive.
Here is a look at the major milestones along our journey.
1850
Waypoint, originally known as the City Missionary Society, is founded to support families working at the textile mills in Manchester, NH.
1882
Waypoint opens a day care and nursery for unattended children of families working at the mills.
1897
1918
Waypoint becomes the first agency to place children in foster homes and launches its adoption program, helping to keep children and infants out of institutions.
1930
At the request of attorneys and the courts, Waypoint becomes NH’s first child protection agency, assuming responsibility for determining custody of children.
1959
Waypoint establishes the Homemaker Services program, the first of its kind in the state, with the goal of stabilizing and strengthening family life.
1971
1972
In response to the increase in youth experiencing homelessness, most with no access to services, Waypoint establishes the Runaway and Homeless Youth Program in Manchester.
1989
1995
Recognizing the critical importance of early childhood development on future success, Waypoint begins our Infant and Toddler Early Intervention Services in Rockingham County.
1997
2003
2017
As a result of Waypoint’s advocacy work, the Child Advocate office is approved by the Senate, increasing protection for children.
2018
Rebranded from Child and Family Services to Waypoint. This included a new mission that focuses on advocacy and the organization’s work in the state.
2020
Waypoint receives its first Family Resource Center of Quality at Nashua Center, as a demonstration of quality and our commitment to families.
2021
2022
Waypoint expands services for youth homelessness including the opening of the first low-barrier emergency shelter for this age group in NH, launching services in new regions, and opening a Drop-In Center in Rochester.
2025
Waypoint celebrates 175 years of impact!