Seattle’s Child is proud to partner with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families Strengthening Families Washington to honor outstanding caregivers doing important work on behalf of children. Throughout February, we’ll introduce you to Unsung Heroes from around the state. Enjoy their stories.Â
Christine German-Mola, Renton
Christine was 64 years old when we first met. She was trying to enroll her grandson Gio in our Early Head Start program at our child care partnership center at Family Circle Learning Center. She had emergency custody of her grandson, who at the time was 16 months old.
I was able to enroll this family into our program and started to work with Christine closely. Christine is hard of hearing, so meeting in person was a little challenging due to scheduling but we both managed to work things out. We were able to refer Gio to Kindering because the doctor and Christine had some concerns about his development. Gio started getting services through Kindering. Christine managed to take Gio to all his well-child exams, dental appointments or any other doctor visit that he needed.
To support Gio and have more financial support, Christine needed to start looking for another part-time job, and her journey was not easy, but she never gave up or was discouraged. At the same time, she was filing for full custody without hiring a lawyer.
Fast forward: She was successful on both; she got a job and gained full custody. Gio completed our program in July 2024, when he turned 3 years old. He was placed on the waiting list to attend the ECEAP program. Christine sometimes sends me updates, and I could not be happier for this family.
— Esperansa Ocampo
NOTE: Seattle’s Child is running these stories unedited, as written by the people who nominated them, in keeping with the DCYF Unsung Hero process.
More Unsung Heroes:
Olivia McGuire: A ‘powerhouse of love’
These parents have come a long way
This inspiring family perseveres
Dad creates a loving, joyful, active home
