Worth the One-hour Bus Ride Each Way

“My relationship with MOMS Orange County began in 2009 when my husband, Ricardo, and I were pregnant with our daughter, Allison,” says Cristina Flores.

Our Home Visitor worked with us to prepare for Allison’s arrival; helping me find resources for basic needs to be sure I was healthy during my pregnancy. Once Allison was born, I attended Mommy & Me classes. It was more than worth the one-hour bus ride each way. Seeing Allison reach her development milestones ahead of schedule and spending time with the other mothers and babies was so important to me.

Welcoming MOMS Into Her Home

So when I became pregnant with my son Richy three years later, I knew I had to invite MOMS into my home and life once again. Thank goodness I did! There was still so much more to learn — and with Allison now in her “terrible twos,” I welcomed my Home Visitor’s offer to help Allison adjust to my pregnancy. After Richy was born, my husband Ricardo and I both participated in Mommy, Daddy & Me classes, where we learned to encourage Richy’s development with play, infant massage and art. Ricardo got to meet other men and really enjoyed the classes with them.

A Resource to Other Moms

I again found a strong circle of support, helping me feel less alone and more empowered as a mom. Usually a shy person, I found myself a leader in the Mommy & Me group and able to be a resource to other moms who had the same concerns I did when I first began my motherhood journey.

Thanks to MOMS Orange County, I have confidence and the skills I need to raise my children — and I’m proud to share my experiences and help parents participate more fully in their children’s lives.”

About MOMS Orange County: For over 25 years, MOMS Orange County has been helping at-risk mothers and their families have healthy babies. Mothers receive one-on-one education and support during pregnancy to help increase their chance of delivering a healthy baby. After babies are born, the focus turns to promoting their healthy growth and development so they grow up happy, healthy and ready to learn.

To learn more about MOMS Orange County

Visit momsorangecounty.org