Childcare Success Stories
Finding Inspiration in the Success of Childcare Programs Around CT
This page captures the success of grantees who transformed their spaces with the LISC CT OEC Facilities Grant Program dollars.
Little Superstars
Little Superstars Family Daycare in West Haven is undergoing an exciting transformation. Owner Yanerys Esperanza Aziz, who has been providing care for children in her community since 2007, has recently completed a major renovation project funded by the Early Childhood Facilities Construction and Renovation grant.
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With the grant money, Yanerys replaced the old, deteriorating wood entry door with a new fiberglass door, effectively stopping the water from leaking into the basement. Now that the project is complete, Yanerys is filled with joy. Reflecting on the transformation of
her space, she said “I never imagined that since 2007, when I opened my daycare, my space would ever look like this,” she shared that she was wiping away tears of happiness as she unpacked boxes and admired the beautiful new space that she was able to create with the grant money. “My kids love it so much that they never want to leave, not even to go upstairs to eat.”
Sol Playschool
Before moving to the US, Silvia Arnoso was a preschool educator in Uruguay. She always dreamed of opening a space to teach and inspire children in her community. As a child, she played “teacher” with neighbors, and by 6th grade, she was volunteering at a local preschool. With a clear vision, she dedicated her life to Early Childhood Education, knowing it was her calling.
Silvia’s childcare facility in Derby will serve 30 children, with 10 slots for infants and toddlers and 20 slots for preschoolers. The funds for the grant were used to add an extension to the back of the house for classrooms, the addition of a reception area, a driveway and parking lot, an outdoor playground focusing on nature, a garden, an alarm system, and heating, among other updates to make the space suitable for children. She is committed to giving children and families the rich, high-quality education they deserve.
Little Wise
Diana Gil’s journey as a family child care provider in Wethersfield took a remarkable turn thanks to the Early Childhood Facilities Construction and Renovation Program grant. Before renovations, Diana’s childcare facility was "dull" and in need of improvements, lacking key elements to foster a nurturing atmosphere. The basement remodel included new flooring, updated windows, a bathroom, a small kitchen, and upgraded lighting. The once-dark space is now bright and welcoming for children and parents alike.
Since 2016, Diana—one of only three Spanish-speaking childcare providers in her town—has recognized the need for a bilingual environment where children can thrive in both English and Spanish. Her facility now serves as a vital resource, breaking down language barriers and offering a nurturing place for growth.
With nine children currently enrolled and two dedicated assistants, the improvements have elevated the quality of care Diana provides. She believes grants like this reignite providers’ motivation, helping them create spaces that meet the many needs of young children. Looking ahead, Diana hopes for future funding to enhance her outdoor space, envisioning a safe playground where children can connect with nature and each other.
Lorry's Butterfly Garden
Lorraine Medina operated a family childcare facility in Waterbury prior to receiving the LISC OEC Facilities Grant. As a family provider, she always researched opportunities to expand her capacity and increase enrollment. After identifying an unused commercial space and working with the owner of the property, Lorraine used our grant dollars, combined with some of her personal funding, to renovate the facility for childcare purposes.
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Lorry's Butterfly Garden will operate as a licensed childcare Center in Waterbury, accommodating up to 76 slots. 36 of these slots will provide quality, safe childcare for infants and toddlers while the other 40 will be for quality, safe preschool care and education. Lorraine is currently seeking opportunities to market her program to develop an enrollment list. Her daycare center will serve to increase access to affordable childcare to low- and moderate-income families in Waterbury.
