Carla works as a police dispatcher for Virginia State Police — a demanding, high-stakes job with non-traditional hours. As a single mom, finding quality, flexible childcare for her son Lucas wasn't just a priority. It was everything.
When Carla enrolled Lucas in NVFS' Early Head Start program, she found more than a safe place for her son to spend his days. She found a full support system built around her family.
"Since I don't work a 9 to 5, the center has been super helpful in terms of keeping me in the loop about Lucas's development," she shares. "Even if it's a new word that he's learned, or a new game, or a new song — it's the little things that add up over time."
Lucas has flourished. He comes in happy and smiling, builds friendships, picks up new language skills, and has developed a special bond with his teacher, Ms. Greida. "He'll talk about her even when I'm home," Carla says warmly. "She knows the kind of snacks he likes, the little things he likes — similar to me. I know he's in good hands."
Carla's family advocate, Glendy, has been equally instrumental — connecting Carla to resources, keeping her informed about center activities, and recently helping her navigate the transition to pre-K enrollment. "It feels good having somebody like Glendy supporting me."
That network of support extends across NVFS. Families in the Early Head Start program can access the Hunger Resource Center, housing assistance, childcare subsidies, and more — all designed to help parents stabilize their lives while their children thrive.
For Carla, that stability has made space for her own dreams. She plans to take the LSAT and apply to law school — pursuing a goal she hasn't lost sight of, even through the demands of shift work and single parenthood.
"The center has been really big on providing essentials — toys, food, even clothing for my family. It feels good having somebody supporting me."
She's also watching her son become exactly who she hoped he would be. "I'm a super proud mom. I think the center has a lot to do with who he is now — super loving and caring. And I'm just so proud to call him my son."
Stories like Carla's are why NVFS shows up every day. Support early childhood education at NVFS and help more families build the strong foundations they deserve.
