NIÑOS: Jump from front page

“I don’t believe in “no, we can’t,” says Gonzalez.

“I believe in “yes, we can.” I try every measure, thinking outside the box.”

The program, funded primarily through the United Way and individual and corporate gifts, is struggling with the economic recession, and Gonzalez knows she has her work cut out for her.

“I can’t stress enough how much we need the Hispanic community to rally around our cause,” she said.
“We can’t do it alone.”

La Sombrillita’s unique advocacy programs includes job readiness assistance, translation services at JobLink Centers, referrals and assistance to new parents, parent education classes and anger management programs.

Assisting Gonzalez is program coordinator Milagros Nieves, together with volunteers, tutors and interns.

La Sombrillita staff does not care about a family’s background. What matters is family need.

“We don’t ask questions,” said Gonzalez.

“A lot of our clients are undocumented and are afraid to approach another agency.”

Gonzalez has little patience for agencies that demand prospective clients to fill 15 to 20 forms only to tell them there’s no help available.

“If we don’t have the resource, we’ll try to find someone who does,” she said.

Whether it’s a car seat, prenatal classes or help landing a job, Gonzalez will try to get it.

Yellow Umbrella is an approved provider for court ordered cases through the 18th Judicial Circuit Court and case management through Community Based Care of Brevard.

Parent education classes focus on developing positive discipline techniques and setting realistic expectations for children. The agency also offers in-home parent education to referrals from Community Based Care of Brevard and the Department of Children and Families.

Gonzalez asks the Hispanic community to consider adopting one of the 574 “angels” still await Christmas gifts this season. The number represents children from the Hispanic community.

“Each gift is under $30 and would mean so much to these kids who have so little,” she said.

“The need is so huge this year.”

La Sombrillita Amarilla is located at 4680 Lipscomb St, Suite 10H, in Palm Bay. Office number is 723-2927. Contact Gonzalez at 223-1301.

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