Page 11 - Updated - Annual Report 2023 (8.5 x 11 in)
P. 11

A FAMILY'S JOURNEY


             WITH JACK & JILL CENTER



     Our journey with Jack & Jill began with                One of the ways that the school supported me in an

     seeking childcare for our two older children.          unexplainable way was through eye screening exams
     It wasn’t until after they were enrolled that          for the children. I had no idea that my daughter
     I was made aware that my mother and uncle              could not see as well as I thought she could. It

     also attended as children. I was seeking an            wasn’t until an exam was administered for free on-
     organization to watch my children while I              site at the school, that I was made aware that my
     went to work, but what I found was so much             daughter was nearly blind. I don’t know how long I

     more! One thing that I admire the most is              would have gone before actually realizing her
     that they do not only focus on the children.           challenge with her eyes.
     The parenting courses offered by the                   Another way that Jack & Jill has made an impact on

     Center are phenomenal.                                 my family that I will never forget was a time when I

                                                            was unable to pay my rent. I had exhausted all of
                                                            my options between family members, asking for an

                                                            advance at work, and even attempting to give
                                                            plasma for extra cash. I ultimately ended up
                                                            speaking with a Family Program member and they

                                                            were able to provide emergency assistance to us. A
                                                            check was cut to my landlord, and my children, and
                                                            we were not homeless.

                                                            Jack & Jill Center has seen me grow from different

                                                            phases in my life. Upon my initial encounter with
                                                            them, I was a single mother, working hard to make

                                                            ends meet, fast forward to today - I am married
                                                            with a full-time position that has excellent benefits.
                                                            None of that would have been possible if I didn’t

                                                            have the confidence that Jack & Jill provided when I
                                                            would send my kids to their quality education
                                                            programs. Allowing someone with their reputation

                                                            to oversee my children, providing security and

    The Gillis Family                                       peace of mind has allowed me to soar in any
                                                            endeavor that I sought to accomplish. I am thankful

                                                            and I look forward to all that is in store for the
                                                            organization as a whole. From the bottom of my
                                                            family’s heart - we thank you.





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