Meet Linda

Linda is very confident about her ability to take care of herself and be a good parent to Renee.

Linda is 21 years old. She works part-time at a grocery store and spends much of the rest of her time caring for her mom, who is often ill from complications from diabetes. A year ago, Linda was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She was still adjusting to that news when, six months later, she learned she was pregnant.

Linda felt overwhelmed, and without support. She did not know what to do until a co-worker told her about CARE House’s Early Head Start program. She called CARE House to find out more, and a week later, CARE House accepted her into the program.

Right away, Linda felt better. Once a week, a Family Educator comes to Linda’s house to visit her and her newborn, Renee. Her Educator came with her on her first prenatal visits to the doctor and helped create a birthing plan sensitive to Linda’s needs. Now when they meet, they discuss Renee's hygiene and nutrition. They play games that help stimulate Renee's brain development. And they come to CARE House for health screenings, and to meet other Early Head Start families. Linda is confident about her ability to take care of herself and be a good parent to Renee.