Story perspectives

Mothers Unite in Baltimore for Free Childcare Support

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mothers at the RISE Early Learning and Family Support Center in Baltimore form a sisterhood offering free childcare.
The center provides resources to help families navigate local systems.
Lezley Lewis-Anthony, a center representative at the RISE Early Learning and Family Support Center in Baltimore, emphasizes fostering self-sufficiency and hopes the bond inspires other parents.
Participants Zane Jones and Tracy Barnes describe how the community helped them through challenges.

History

Historical Context

Launched in 1965 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society initiative, the Head Start program aimed to provide early education and support to low-income families, enrolling 500,000 children in its first year. Today, it serves over 1 million children annually, with centers like the RISE Early Learning and Family Support Center in Baltimore continuing to promote educational equity and community support.

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Story summary

Mothers at the RISE Early Learning and Family Support Center in Baltimore form a sisterhood offering free childcare.
The center provides resources to help families navigate local systems.
Lezley Lewis-Anthony, a center representative at the RISE Early Learning and Family Support Center in Baltimore, emphasizes fostering self-sufficiency and hopes the bond inspires other parents.
Participants Zane Jones and Tracy Barnes describe how the community helped them through challenges.

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