"Catherwood was contacted by an employer who stated that their employee, a single parent of 4, was having attendance issues due to daycare. Additionally, there was a language barrier. We contacted the Welcome Center and together, brought the mom in to tell us her story and do a needs assessment. She was able to enroll her children at Catherwood and qualified for child care assistance. This wasn't sufficient, so we also provided her with a scholarship. When compared against her pay stubs, about 1/4 of her income would have gone towards child care per week if she only remained with child care assistance. Because this mom starts work at 5 AM, we provide transportation to and from school for the children. She has expressed gratitude that we accommodate for her children during the 3 week recession at Sumner Elementary. While we were doing this, the Welcome Center helped her with her other needs, and was able to get the mom her tax return which had been held. Once she got her tax return, she paid for bills she had fallen behind on, she was able to buy gifts for Christmas, and have a little left over for an emergency fund. This mother is very grateful for our support and expressed that she appreciated that we took the time to hear her story and provided help for her individualized needs. When we tried to support her with assistance during the holidays, she stated that she wanted to provide her and her children because she wanted to carry that pride as a single mother."
