Hope’s Homestart Program Provides Vital Assistance to Family of Siblings Olivia and Myles

When Cherish learned that her second child, Myles, was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, she spent eight months working with the regional center that partially funds Hope Services to find a placement and begin receiving support for her child. She was referred to Hope’s Homestart program and placed with Amy, who worked exceptionally well with Myles before he graduated from the program.

A couple of years later, Olivia was born and—to their surprise—was also diagnosed with Down Syndrome. Navigating specialized care for a second child would be a daunting task for their family, but Amy committed herself to partnering with Cherish, providing early intervention services from the moment Olivia was born. By getting such an early start, Olivia is making incredible strides in her development. Now one year old, she scores ahead of the curve in her development progress.

Homestart is there to walk with families from the very beginning to help them get the best start possible. Cherish and her family are more hopeful today for the children’s future because of the great work accomplished in the program. Hope Services has become an extension of their family and allows them to feel less alone.

“I couldn’t see myself doing this a second time around without Hope. I’m happy that now my daughter is making strides; she’s standing on her own. She got her services a lot sooner, so she’s able to do all these things,” says Cherish.

Thanks to Homestart, Amy became an invaluable resource and support for Myles and Olivia and their family. You can strengthen the services that families depend on to ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities can thrive. Contact Courtney Barry at 408-284-2850 or development@hopeservices.org to learn how you can strengthen the families we serve.