Parenting Skills & Resources to Adapt
Category: Client Story
September 23, 2024
Resources & Skills to Ease Immigration Challenges
New to the United States, Elkis and her family found it hard to adjust. Her husband and three daughters left a lot behind in Venezuela, but thanks to a community of moms in Austin and Any Baby Can, she was connected to life-saving resources.
A Struggle to Adjust
When they moved to the U.S., Elkis joined a group for moms from Venezuela and was referred to Any Baby Can by a friend who was in the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program. She wanted to find resources for her family and parenting skills to adapt to American culture. The cost of living, especially housing, was a big hurdle. Elkis' husband worked day and night to provide for the family, but it was still a struggle. Without a car, transportation was difficult. At one point, their apartment rental was expiring and Elkis was worried about becoming homeless. It all felt like too much to handle.
They needed help to get their lives in order. Once connected to a Parent Educator, things started to fall into place.
“We came here feeling lost. It wasn't easy to get started. There are so many other moms in need, that I didn’t think they could help us. But I believe this was meant to be,” reflects Elkis.
They were connected to developmental assessments, doctors and mental health support for the whole family.
Parenting Skills and Dedication
Her Parent Educator provided parenting advice and support with her youngest’s growth and development, and helped the family enroll in school, speech therapy services and other community resources.
“The first time I met Azucena, her warmth and dedication gave me so much hope. She answered all my questions and helped me so much,” says Elkis.
Elkis says Any Baby Can gave her the tools she needed to survive here. And that they taught her how to grow as a mother and adapt to a new life.
“Most importantly, they taught me how to support my family through these changes.”
And that is a gift that will last a lifetime!
Re-Building Their Lives
Elkis has always been committed to her family and her own personal growth. She took English classes, enrolled in school, and they signed a lease on a new apartment.
Now, thanks to the family’s hard work and Azucena's guidance they have all their documents in order, their own cars and a place to live. Since all three girls are in school, both parents work full-time and are able to support their family’s needs.
With Any Baby Can’s help, the Elkis’ family slowly began to rebuild their lives. They’re just happy to be able to do regular family activities like hiking, swimming, or simply getting ice cream together as a family.
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