by Kayla Munoz, Director of Las Abejitas Bilingual Education Center
Four of our staff at Las Abejitas attended and graduated from the first cohort of Early Childhood Foundations, hosted by Lincoln Littles. The 6-week program provides a unique opportunity for those with little or no prior experience in the childcare industry to receive training to prepare them to confidently step into childcare career opportunities. Upon completion, graduates meet Early Learning Guidelines, are CPR/First Aid certified and receive a $5,000 scholarship toward their own child(ren)’s care. Lincoln mayor, Leirion Gaylor Baird, spoke at the event and helped hand out certificates.
We currently have some families in need of scholarships and are seeking donations. Some of these families barely make too much to qualify for child care subsidies, but not enough to pay for quality child care. In one case, a refugee family from Guatemala is in need of an ongoing scholarship. Because of the immigration process, they are currently unable to apply for child care subsidies, even though they would qualify. An anonymous donor from the church has already made a generous contribution that will get them through the first month. We are so grateful!
Here is a note from the child’s mother:
My name is Karol. I came to the United States in July of 2023. I made the decision to come to this country for a better future for my daughter because in my country there weren’t many opportunities. The road wasn’t easy and there were many obstacles for us to overcome. Once I got here, I still haven’t been issued my work permit and other documents, so it’s very hard to make ends meet and find a job. This made finding and paying for child care very complicated, especially since costs are so high. It was also hard to find a trustworthy place where I can feel confident my daughter is being well cared for. With the help of my sister-in-law, I was able to find Las Abejitas where they gave me the opportunity to enroll my daughter. Now I’m happy knowing that she is in a safe place being well cared for.
Nothing has been easy for us. Starting from zero in another country and getting used to a new environment and customs has been hard, but we are getting better little by little. Every day brings us closer to my goal, a better future for my daughter. I’m so thankful for the help we have received, which has relieved a huge burden.
Contact Kayla Munoz at office@lasabejitas.net if you are interested in helping Karol and support her daughter’s childcare needs at Las Abejitas.
