|
KPVI-TV (
By Ty Brennan
One local school is off and running for another year, but unlike other
preschools in the area, this one is aimed at helping migrants and their
children feel more at home here in Eastern Idaho.
El Castillito in Idaho Falls is a school run by the Community Council of
Idaho, a non-profit organization that helps migrants, usually from the
Latino community, by offering a myriad of services.
Melinda Vargas, parent: "While you're working, you know your kids are
safe and learning at the same time."
And that's the main goal of El Castillito. Irma Isla is the center's
coordinator and says the services they offer help families ease into
their new lives in Eastern Idaho.
Irma Isla, center coordinator: "Most of our families are new to the
area. We do have a couple that stay here in the area, but we have a lot
that come from another state. For example, this year we have a lot that
have migrated from California and Arizona."
The center, which has branches in Osgood and Aberdeen, helps with not
only education and childcare, but housing, employment and
healthcare. Isla says these skills will help parents in the long run.
Irma Isla, center coordinator: "We're giving them the tools, so in the
future if they don't qualify for the program, they know where to go and
things they need. It's to make our parents more self-sufficient."
Melinda Vargas, parent: "They help families in need with clothing, food,
stuff like that. They do give a lot of help to families and kids."
Melinda and Marco Vargas have their two children enrolled at El
Castillito while they're working and say the improvement they've seen in
their children is amazing.
Melinda Vargas, parent: "I'm happy that every day he's learning
something, like he knows how to say 'mom' or 'dad' and you know, other
little things."
The Vargas family says the program not only benefits their family, but
the community as a whole.
Melinda Vargas, parent: "It's something helpful for the kids and the
community also."
|