Anna Maria Gonzalez Nava’s world changed one year ago when her son, Jose Manuel De laCruz, was born. Anna Maria, 24, is from Mexico. She has been living in Sylvania for almost a year-and-a-half. With Adelante’s support, she has high hopes for her future, as well as for her son’s. She says Adelante’s Nosotras and Leamos Juntos programs are providing her with the knowledge she needs to care for Jose and positively address the changes in her life.
“I know things now that I never knew before,” she said. “They told me I needed to buy him boots this winter, and that even though he is only 1 year old, it is not too early to start working with him on reading. They helped us get CareNet so we can get medical care; they helped me get a car seat for Jose; and they even help me with doctor appointments when he is sick.”

Anna Maria said Adelante’s staff is encouraging her to learn English so she can expand the opportunities available to her and her son.
“I know they are right,” she said. “My little one is going to learn English, and I need to learn it too. It is frustrating to go to the market, and no one will help me because I cannot talk with them.”

Adelante’s staff members have really reached out to Anna Maria and her family.
“They are very patient with us here,” she said. “They call me to come to class, and they even provide transportation. I get a lot of help here in a country that is not my own. I did not get this kind of help in my own country. I want to continue working with Adelante for many years to come, and I hope it keeps growing, so it can help others.”