Working full-time does not mean childcare is within reach

I am filled with gratitude toward Kids Co. at South Shore for their wonderful staff and the organization’s generosity. I am lucky to have a very steady and satisfying job, but still have felt the recession badly, especially as a single parent. Kids Co. at South Shore’s program manager, Elinor, saw my stress and kept encouraging me to apply for a scholarship to alleviate my financial challenges. Initially I hesitated because I felt other families are struggling even more than me. Finally, when I did apply and receive assistance, I felt such tremendous relief. The scholarship put childcare within my family’s reach and it also lowered my daily anxiety — which helped me become a better, stress-free mother. What a gift!

This fall my son will be entering first grade, which will ease my finances because we won’t be paying kindergarten school-fees; I’ll only need to afford out-of-school-time care. So it’s my turn to start paying it forward! I am eager to finally be able to contribute a little extra to Kids Co. each month for other families in need.

To top this off, my son has thrived at Kids Co.! He’s been able to participate in enrichment activities and try lots of new things; he’s been embraced for the energetic, inquisitive, sometimes challenging boy he is. The teachers have been patient and loving with him and he’s grown tremendously in their care. I couldn’t feel luckier or more grateful.

I really don’t know what I would have done if Kids Co. hadn’t offered me a scholarship. From the bottom of my heart, I thank them and every BBQ donor for making childcare a reality for my son.

Best,
Margaret