My name is Sonia. I’ve been connected to Southside Early Childhood Center since 2016. My relationship with Southside began when my youngest sister was just one year old. What immediately stood out to me was how warm, welcoming, and supportive the staff were, especially to families like mine who speak limited English.
My mother only speaks Spanish, and despite the language barrier, the team at Southside always made her feel comfortable and included. Coming from a place where early childhood education wasn’t easily accessible, my mother was incredibly grateful that my sister could attend Southside until she was six years old. It was truly a blessing for our family.
In 2020, I became a mother myself. My son was born during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and like many first-time parents, I struggled to find quality childcare. In mid-2021, as I began searching for new job opportunities, I was fortunate to discover that Southside was hiring. I applied and was hired the very same day I interviewed. However, there was one major concern: I didn’t have reliable childcare for my son due to the hours I had been offered.
That’s when I spoke to Southside’s Executive Director and shared my concern, and she immediately offered me a spot for my child at the center. In that moment, I knew Southside was the right place for me. No other job had ever offered me the opportunity to be near my child while also earning an income to support my family.
As a full-time employee and a student continuing my education, life can feel overwhelming at times. Balancing work, school, and motherhood is no easy task. There are moments when the pressure feels too much, but thanks to the support I’ve received at Southside, I never feel like I’m doing it alone. This community lifts me and helps me stay grounded, even on the toughest days.
Being a first-time parent was already a huge adjustment. I didn’t always have the tools, knowledge, or emotional skills I needed to help both my son and me thrive. Southside stepped in to support me in more ways than one.
Southside is more than just a workplace or a childcare center, it’s a family. And I’m so grateful to be part of it.