When Brooke first came to Luzerne County Head Start as a young mother, she was touched by the supportive and understanding staff. It was clear how much they cared for each family.

“They make every child feel special in their program,”  she said.

Brooke decided to enroll her daughters because they were struggling to learn basic skills. Both girls participated in the Early Head Start home visiting program for infants and toddlers before transitioning to a Head Start preschool classroom. 

Her 5-year-old daughter Olivia had speech issues when she first started with LCHS. Olivia went from not speaking at all to talking in full sentences and effectively communicating with others, thanks in part to support and referrals from LCHS. Though she still struggles with enunciation, she continues making progress toward her speech goals. 

Brooke’s older daughter Anastasia, who is now 10, showed behavioral issues during her time with LCHS. Staff helped Brooke address her daughter’s challenging behaviors and referred her to community resources. This led to Anastasia’s eventual diagnosis of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD.

LCHS also supported the family through a challenging time when they had no choice but to leave their current living situation. Staff assisted Brooke with finding stable housing and helped the family with everything they needed along the way.

Brooke said it’s bittersweet that Olivia will begin kindergarten is moving on to kindergarten, as the staff at LCHS have come to feel like part of their family. 

“I would recommend LCHS to other families with little children because I think kids need that structure and the help so they are better prepared for what’s to come when they start school,” she said.

By Brooke Williams, Community Advocate