Nurturing Black & Brown Families with Love, Support, and Resources in the ATX

Finding the right childcare, educational support, or healthcare provider can be challenging—especially when you’re seeking culturally responsive options that embrace your family’s background and speak your language. For Black and Brown families, it’s not just about quality; it’s about belonging. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help parents like you find spaces that nurture your child’s development, affirm your family’s identity, and speak to your needs.

Childcare & Early Childhood Development

1. Home-Based Childcare Providers (Subsidy & Non-Subsidy)

Home-based providers are often family-run, creating a nurturing and familiar environment with smaller child-to-provider ratios. Many of these providers offer bilingual care, provide non-traditional hours, and cater to diverse cultural or religious practices. You can find providers inspired by Reggio Emilia or Montessori approaches, or those offering nature-based or faith-based care. Looking for the right fit might feel overwhelming, but trust me—when you find it, it’ll feel like your child’s second home. DM me for my personal recs if you’re in the Austin area!

2. Child Inc.
Child Inc. is a federally funded program offering early childhood education and care for children from low-income families. This is a wonderful resource for littles who aren’t quite ready for a large school setting, with dedicated early childhood (EC) focused environments.

3. Workforce Solutions Capital Area
This organization provides childcare subsidies and connects parents with employment opportunities and job training. Services are available in Spanish, and while the waitlist can be long, it’s worth putting your name on it if you qualify.

4. Licensed Childcare Centers
Childcare centers can be a great fit for parents looking for more structured, school-like environments for their children. Some accept subsidies, while others are private pay. If you’re thinking of center-based care, start looking early—especially if you have an infant, as waitlists can be long!

Education: Programs and Resources for Parents

1. AVANCE-Austin
Offers bilingual parenting and early childhood education programs for low-income families, with a focus on supporting Spanish-speaking communities. They provide parent-child activities, parenting workshops, and other resources to help families build a strong educational foundation.

2. Todos Juntos Learning Center
Todos Juntos offers education, parenting support, and advocacy resources for immigrant families. They create a welcoming space where parents can navigate the education system, receive bilingual support, and access materials—all to help families thrive in Austin’s educational landscape.

3. Partners in Parenting
Offers peer support, educational programs, and community events for parents navigating early childhood challenges. Their programs help parents build a network of support and share experiences with other families.

4. Austin Discovery School
This nature-based K-6 public charter school provides a hands-on learning experience for children. It’s free, inclusive, and focused on connecting students with the natural world.

5. Vela Families
Vela is a local nonprofit that provides support, education, and resources for families of children with disabilities and developmental delays. They offer parent workshops in both English and Spanish, helping families access services and build a community of support. Their approach is holistic and focused on empowering families through knowledge and shared experience.

Healthcare Resources: Compassionate Care for Our Families

1. Lirios Pediatrics
Lirios Pediatrics offers compassionate, family-centered care with bilingual (Spanish-English) services. They focus on the health and wellness of children from Black, Brown, and immigrant families. I’ve heard wonderful feedback from families who have gone here, and their staff is dedicated to serving the community with love and respect.

2. El Buen Samaritano
El Buen Samaritano is a one-stop-shop for healthcare, food assistance, and educational services for low-income and immigrant families. From medical care to English classes and summer programs for teens, they truly do it all. I know families who’ve benefited from their services during the holidays and beyond—definitely a place to check out!

Prenatal & Postpartum Support

My love for early childhood started in the reproductive justice space. It’s not just about access to birth control or abortion—it’s about the right to birth and raise a child with dignity and support. These programs welcome children, partners, and families, and often include a shared meal alongside classes and resources.

1. Black Mamas ATX
Provides maternal health services for Black mothers, focusing on reducing health disparities and offering free childcare for postpartum appointments and more. Their support is holistic and grounded in community care.

2. Mama Sana Vibrant Woman
Mama Sana offers culturally rooted prenatal and postpartum care for Black and Brown women. Their birth preparation classes and prenatal programs are a great way to build community, and you might even connect with a free doula!

3. Luz de Atambay Midwifery Project
QTBIPOC-led, culturally rooted, trauma-informed care for families, especially for immigrants, refugees, and queer and trans families. They offer a free clinic for pregnant people, with care in Spanish, French, and other languages.

4. GALS (Giving Austin Labor Support)
GALS supports pregnant individuals around the clock, offering doula support and advocating for the birth rights of those within the Travis County system, including incarcerated pregnant people. They're doing amazing work! You can reach out anytime—yes, anyone can! Available 24/7, 365 days a year!

Conclusion: We’re All In This Together

Navigating the world of childcare, education, and healthcare as a Black or Brown parent can feel overwhelming. But you’re not alone! There are incredible resources and supportive communities out there—If you’re in need of more personalized recommendations, have questions, or just want to chat, feel free to follow me and my kiddos on socials @la_michellemejia I’m always here to share tips, lend an ear, and help you find the right fit for your family.