NEED ADVICE OR YOUR Stories----how Do SINGLE MOMS Do It???

Oh my God- your story sounds like mine did. I went and got state assistance- I mean, food, medical etc for my son and myself. I enetered the First to Work program too. I didnt have anyone to help me and I know how frustrating it is here, everything is so expensive. I tried to get section 8 only to be told the wait list is 5 years to indefinite. Your child is 5 right? You can enroll him in a public school, where they have jr kindergarten programs, which is what my son is doing now. The sooner the better, for both of you. You dont want your son to fall behind academically, and it would free up the better part of your day too. Good luck to you and your son, and let me know how things go-

I go to UCSC and I am a mom, though not single. However I do know that if you are in need you can apply for TANF and Food Stamps. Some people, including myself originally, feel that its embarrassing to go to the welfare office but they will give you money that you need to get by and there is nothing wrong with asking for help. We pay our taxes, we might as well get that money back when we are in need.

They will help you go to school (a certificate or job specific) or get a job and will give you free childcare while you are working and in school. They are amazingly wonderful here compared to Los Angeles county (horrible, absolutely horrible system).

Its very hard to be a single mom but it sounds like you want the best for yourself and your son so I think you will be fine.

I feel your frustration, as a child care provider I remember there were some interviews where I really wanted to watch their children. They wanted me to watch them and the only delay the money from the state. The parents were required to go back to work but they were too waiting for there money it took over 3 months I held the position until there and couldn't any more due to financial situation on my end. I was really sad. But they weren't the only ones.

Your child is 5? Couldn't you enroll him to Kindergarten sorry if this is a stupid question. I would try that first. If not try a school near you called Seagull. Sometime they offer grants for those who have a hard time making ends meet. The only problem the may have a long waiting list. They also charge a registration fee.

About being able to go to a Dr. Appointment I understand that too. I recently went to a place to get my blood drawn and it gave me a hard time because I had my kids. I was pretty upset. Like you I have no one else here to watch my kids. I have my son enrolled in Seagulls but my newborn is at home with me and when situation like this happens I feel like pulling my hair out. Because its like a catch 22 you have to go but they dont let your kids there.

The solution I created for parents is a respite care. Its going to start in Feb 2008 and its going to be by the airport on Mondays and Tuesday and thursday from 1-4pm if you make your appointment during that time. It would work out for you. The only thing I have to Charge $10-12 per hour plus Tax. and you have to come for a 3 hour minimum. Its because I have to block out those time. Sorry. You can drop off later and pick up before but still have to pay the 3 hours. If this helps if you want more information go to our website. islandmonkeez.com

I hope this helps
F.

Hello K.,
I am not sure where you are located and where you are seeking a daycare provider. I am in the San Fernando Valley in Mission Hills. We are CCRC eligible, and you can get emergency CCRC. The state would much more prefer to have you working than at home. It is cheaper for I have a family daycare and have mimicked my daycare to childcare facilities. I did this because when doing my research with other family home daycares, realized that home daycares lack structure and education as well as social skills. The standard, I noticed, was placing the child in front of the television and just making sure the child stays out of havoc. I believe in safety, education, and development. In addition, I feel that it is imperative that children feel comfortable and have mentors, as well as development. We offer Reading, Mathematics, Social Studies, Language Arts, Arts and Crafts, Play time, Computer lab (September 2009)**, and Potty training. I have newsletters to discuss events, before and after school pick-ups/drop offs, we offer many events, not only for the children, but for the parents as well. As stated, we are very much like a facility, with very reasonable rates. Let me know if you are interested in literature on our daycare to get a better understanding of what we offer and our rates.
Thanks,
N.
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