Cutting the Therapy Waitlist in Half

We’re excited to announce a new grant partnership with GiGi’s Playhouse México, a Down syndrome achievement center doing truly extraordinary work in Querétaro, Mexico. GiGi’s Playhouse provides free educational, therapeutic, and support programs for babies, children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome. The organization’s goal is to change the way the world views Down syndrome and send a global message of acceptance for all.

That mission comes through from the very first interaction with a family. When a family contacts GiGi’s Playhouse after learning their child has Down syndrome and asks about accessing services, one of the first things they hear is: “Congratulations.” Starting with celebration sets the tone for the support families receive — welcoming their child, their family, and the possibilities ahead.

But the demand for these services is greater than GiGi’s Playhouse can currently accommodate. In Mexico, government support for children with Down syndrome is limited, and for many families, GiGi’s Playhouse may be their only access to specialized therapy and educational programs. Families are waiting for services like speech, literacy, and math, which can help children build communication, independence, and skills they can carry into school, work, and their communities.

The need for these services continues to grow. This cycle, GiGi’s Playhouse is serving 150 participants across its Literacy, Mathematics, and Language programs, which will be 20,700 hours of therapy in 2025.

The Project

This grant will fund therapy scholarships for 30 children, which will collectively provide an additional 1,200 therapy hours across math, literacy, and speech programs during 2025–2026. Most importantly, the scholarships will help GiGi’s Playhouse reduce its current waitlist by 50%, allowing more children to access the services they need.

By helping reduce the waitlist, this new partnership will give more families the opportunity to access consistent support during the years when these skills are being developed.

We’re proud to begin this partnership with GiGi’s Playhouse México and support their work to help more children develop the skills they need to communicate, become more independent, and participate more fully in their communities.

From Kitchens to Classrooms

Every weekday, children across Cartagena come to Fundación Alimentar Colombia’s community kitchens for a hot, nutritious meal. In Cerros de Albornoz, where the organization operates seven kitchens, serving over 1,800 children daily, these spaces have become trusted places where children and families can find support.

But for many of these children, access to education is much less certain. Based on Fundación Alimentar Colombia’s internal assessments, approximately 62% of the children served by its community kitchens are not currently enrolled in school. Limited space in local schools, economic challenges, and other barriers can make it difficult for children to access and consistently attend school. As a result, many may spend their days at home without structured learning or adult supervision.

Kids First believes access to education can play an important role in helping children thrive. Learning gives children opportunities to build skills, grow their confidence, discover their interests, and imagine new possibilities for their futures.

That’s why we’re pleased to support From Kitchens to Classrooms, a new initiative from Fundación Alimentar Colombia that will transform one of its existing community kitchens into a free, non-formal learning space for 100 children.

The Project

The space will offer literacy, numeracy, computer, music, art, and play-based activities guided by trained educators. Children who already visit the kitchen for meals will be able to learn in a familiar environment, without the financial or transportation barriers that can make traditional schooling difficult to access.

The project is not intended to replace formal education. Instead, it will prioritize children who are not currently enrolled in school, giving them access to meaningful learning opportunities while continuing to provide the meals they already rely on.

Designed as a pilot, From Kitchens to Classrooms will allow Fundación Alimentar Colombia to learn from the first 100 children and explore how the model could eventually expand to other community kitchens across Cartagena.

By building on spaces and relationships that already exist, this project brings two essential forms of support together: nourishment for growing bodies and opportunities to nourish growing minds.

Expanding Digital Learning at Molo Mhlaba

We’ve been proud to support Molo Mhlaba since 2018, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see where the girls are now. The school now has 189 students enrolled and has seen significant improvement in both math and English performance. The first group of girls we supported has gone on to earn placements at prestigious institutions, including the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy.

Now, we’re excited to build on that support by expanding access to digital learning for the girls at Molo Mhlaba today.

The Project

This grant supports an Ed-Tech expansion that brings digital, paperless learning to Grades 1–5, building on the successful model already in place for Grades 6 and 7. Through tablets, laptops, and tools like Google Classroom, learning apps, and digital textbooks, students will have access to a richer, more dynamic STEAM education that reduces reliance on physical materials and opens up new ways of engaging with the world.

For girls in Khayelitsha, access to technology isn’t just an educational upgrade — it’s an equalizer. It gives them access to resources and opportunities that can help them build confidence, develop new skills, and see what they’re capable of.

Molo Mhlaba means “Hello World,” a name that reflects the school’s belief in showing children the possibilities that exist so they can embrace their world. With greater access to technology and STEAM education, we’re excited to help more girls explore those possibilities, pursue their interests, and shape their own futures.

Creating Safe Opportunities for Families to Reconnect

We’re excited to announce a new grant to Casa Alianza, building on our relationship with the organization and our shared hope to see the adolescents they support in Mexico City thrive.

For many of the teens at Casa Alianza — young people between 12 and 18 who have experienced abandonment, trafficking, violence, or unaccompanied migration — rebuilding connection with family is one of the most complex and meaningful parts of their healing journey. This new grant funds 12 months of supervised family reintegration activities, creating safe, structured opportunities for adolescents and their caregivers to reconnect.

The Project

Casa Alianza organizes and leads each family activity, providing the support and supervision needed to make these moments feel safe for everyone involved. The impact of these activities goes beyond a single afternoon together. They strengthen emotional bonds and connections between adolescents and their families, supporting a future reintegration where possible. During this time together, the families also have the opportunity to practice empathetic communication, which can foster healthier, more stable family relationships over time.

For teens who have experienced so much instability, having a safe and supportive environment to spend time with family can be a transformative source of consistency and connection.

Continuing Our Support for TETO Brasil

In October 2025, Cultural Care staff from Brazil, US, and Switzerland joined TETO Brasil to help complete seven emergency homes for families living in São Paulo’s favelas. The experience gave our team a closer look at the challenges these families face and the difference a safe, stable home can make in their daily lives.

But the need for safe housing extends beyond the families we supported last year. Many families living in São Paulo’s most vulnerable communities continue to live in makeshift structures made from tarps and scrap wood, without reliable access to sanitation, clean water, or safe electricity. Children and single mothers are among those living in these conditions.

In 2026, we’re continuing our partnership with TETO Brasil through a new Kids First grant that will fund 12 more homes with bathrooms.

The Project

The grant will support 12 more families in building a more stable place to call home. Each home is approximately 18–21m², can be built in just two days, and is designed to last for more than 10 years. Families can also choose to work alongside volunteers during construction, giving them an opportunity to take part in building their new homes.

A new home won’t change all of the challenges these families face, but it can provide a safer and more stable place to live. For children, that stability can make everyday life a little easier and give them more space to focus on learning, growing, and being kids.

We’re looking forward to having Cultural Care Au Pair volunteers help with the final touches on these homes in December 2026.

Introducing the 2026 Kids First Ambassador Team

The Kids First Ambassador Team is back, and bigger than ever. We’re thrilled to welcome our 2026 cohort of 24 ambassadors, a growing group of staff members from across Cultural Care who are committed to making Kids First more present in offices and communities throughout the year.

Building on the foundation laid by the 2025 team, this year’s group brings fresh energy, new ideas, and a structure designed to help everyone thrive. Returning 2025 ambassadors have been designated as mentors, recognizing their experience while giving new team members a colleague to turn to for ideas, support, and collaboration.

We can’t wait to see what this year’s team brings to Kids First and share their work throughout the year.

Expanding Youth Cycling Opportunities in Colombia

In 2025, we supported the Esteban Chaves Foundation's PAT program, helping create opportunities for young cyclists and their families to grow through sport. Throughout the year, an average of 68 young athletes and 90 families took part in more than 100 activities, including training sessions, weekend rides, family workshops, health check-ups, and community events. Together, these activities gave children and teens opportunities to develop their athletic skills while building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

One of the highlights was the fourth edition of Copa Kids, the Foundation's national youth cycling festival. The three-day event brought together 148 young cyclists from 25 clubs and 13 municipalities across Colombia, along with hundreds of family members, volunteers, and community members. With 35 volunteers supporting the event, Copa Kids gave young athletes a chance to compete, connect with other cyclists, and celebrate their sport alongside their families.

Now, in 2026, we're excited to continue our partnership with the Esteban Chaves Foundation through another grant — with an additional focus that resonates deeply with Kids First.

The project

Our grant continues to support two important parts of the Foundation’s youth cycling programming. After supporting the fourth edition of Copa Kids in 2025, we’re excited to support the event again in 2026. True to the Foundation’s values, Copa Kids remains completely free for all participants, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to belonging.

New this year, we’re also supporting PAT Femenino 2026, which builds on the Foundation’s existing work with young cyclists while creating more opportunities for girls to participate in the sport.

Supporting opportunities that help children thrive is at the heart of our work, including our commitment to creating opportunities for girls. We’ve seen that commitment through our longstanding support of Molo Mhlaba, an all-girls STEM school in South Africa, and we’re excited to continue it in Colombia by supporting greater female participation in the Esteban Chaves Foundation’s cycling programs.

Girls have historically made up just 10% of participants in the Foundation’s cycling programs. PAT Femenino 2026 aims to change that by doubling female participation to at least 20%. The initiative will directly support 80 girls between the ages of 6 and 18 through scholarships, equipment, mentorship, and family-inclusive workshops. A dedicated female coach will lead training and mentorship throughout the year, helping participants build confidence, develop their skills, and cultivate a long-term love of sport.

Through this continued partnership, we’re proud to support the Foundation’s work to make youth cycling more accessible and create more opportunities for girls to participate and thrive.

Introducing the First-Ever Kids First Staff Ambassador Team

In 2025, we were excited to launch the first-ever Kids First Staff Ambassador Team, bringing together 19 passionate staff members from Cultural Care Au Pair offices around the world. The team was created in response to something we were hearing from our staff again and again: a genuine desire to learn more about Kids First, get more involved, and play a deeper role in supporting our mission to help children around the world.

From the very beginning, this team was more than a group of staff representatives. The 2025 ambassadors helped shape what it means to be a Kids First Ambassador, bringing their own ideas, creativity, and passion to the role and showing what’s possible when people come together around a shared purpose.

A Snapshot of the Year

Together, the 19 ambassadors raised more than $15,000, hosted 30+ events, and engaged more than 5,000 people in support of children around the world. Here are just a few highlights:

·      Hope B. | USA: Incorporated Kids First donations into ticket sales for 15 professional sporting events across 13 states, raising more than $7,000 while bringing host families, au pairs, and Local Childcare Consultants together.

·      Molly H. | Boston: Hosted two memorable au pair events, a “Party in the USA” prom night and a Halloween costume party, selling more than 170 tickets combined.

·      Taylor G. | Denver: Took wellness month to new heights with a rooftop yoga class for staff at the Denver office.

·      Helene J. | Zurich: Hosted a Valentine’s candy-gram sale and food fair that together raised more than 2,200 CHF.

·      Natalia M. | Madrid & Barcelona: Celebrated the International Day of Friendship with merchandise and snacks across EF offices and schools.

·      Angela B. | Milan & Rome: Hosted brunch events that brought au pairs and friends together for connection and community.

Thank You, Ambassadors!

The first year of the Kids First Staff Ambassador Team showed us just how much can happen when passionate individuals have the opportunity to get involved together. Every event, idea, and conversation helped shape the team and define what it means to be a Kids First Ambassador.

We’re grateful to the 2025 ambassadors for helping bring Kids First to life in new and creative ways, and for laying the foundation for what this team can become in the years ahead.

Building homes, building hope

In São Paulo’s favelas, many families live in unsafe wooden shelters without access to clean water, sanitation, or reliable electricity. Working with TETO Brasil, Cultural Care helped build 7 prefabricated homes, each with a bathroom, giving families—many of them children and single mothers—a safe, dignified place to call home.

These homes are designed to be built in just two days and to last for over 10 years, providing families with stability that improves health, safety, and access to education. The project is community-driven, bringing together families and volunteers to work side by side, and includes follow-up after construction to ensure lasting impact.

The families moving into these homes face incredibly difficult challenges, from chronic illnesses and disabilities to extremely low incomes. For children, a secure home can mean better health, and the chance to dream of a brighter future. 

On October 11, Cultural Care staff from Brazil and abroad joined the final stage of construction—painting, sanding, installing doors and windows, and helping with repairs. The day ended with a community-prepared lunch and a closing ceremony, celebrating the families and volunteers who made it all possible.

Hear directly from the families and volunteers about what these new homes truly mean, and see how a safe, stable home can transform daily life: Watch the video here

The 2025 NYC Marathon

On November 2nd, 11 incredible members of the Cultural Care Au Pair community laced up their shoes and took on one of the world's most iconic races — the New York City Marathon — all in support of the Cultural Care Kids First Foundation. They came to the race with different goals. Some were running their first marathon, some were returning to a sport they loved, and others were sharing the experience with someone from their Cultural Care journey. Here are a few of their stories:

A few of the runners behind the miles

Bryan M., host dad, and Maria P., au pair
Bryan returned to marathon running after taking a break to focus on becoming a father. His au pair, Maria, encouraged him to start training again, and the two ran the New York City Marathon together, with Bryan’s family cheering them on. For Bryan, the race was a chance to reconnect with a sport he loves while raising money for Kids First.

Laura V., Cultural Care staff member
Laura took on her first full marathon after years of running shorter races. She knew the distance would push her beyond her usual experience, but she was motivated by the chance to support Kids First and help bring the Cultural Care community together around the cause.

Sarah O., host mom
Sarah, a mother of four daughters, set herself the goal of running a marathon during a significant birthday year. After seven years as a Cultural Care host family, she wanted to support an organization that helps create opportunities for children.

Tara S., host mom, and Simone Z., bro pair
Tara and Simone discovered a shared love of running soon after he joined their family. After completing a 5K together, they began training for the New York City Marathon, with Tara’s children joining them for some of their runs. For both of them, the race was a personal challenge, a way to support Kids First, and another part of the bond they built through running.

Raquel V., au pair
Raquel returned to running after recovering from an accident. Her training taught her the importance of discipline, commitment, and resilience, especially on the days when motivation was hard to find. She ran the New York City Marathon to support children in need and to show them that they have a community standing behind them.

Thank You

Every mile run and every dollar raised goes directly toward supporting children in communities around the world. We are so proud of this team and deeply grateful to everyone who cheered them on and donated along the way!

A Seat on the Bus Means a Seat in the Classroom

Getting to school safely is not a given for the girls at Molo Mhlaba. Many students live in townships where unsafe conditions can be a daily reality, making the journey to school just as important as what happens inside the classroom. Reliable transportation can help make that journey safer and more accessible each day. We’re grateful to support another grant for Molo Mhlaba, helping make that journey easier for students.

The Project

This grant funds a small bus to transport students safely to their classrooms, ensuring getting to school never becomes a barrier to learning. It also covers the installation of security gates at the Montclair campus — two panels needed for full enclosure — to prevent trespassing and create a safer environment for students and staff.

Access to education isn't just about what's taught, it's about making sure every girl can get there and feel safe when she arrives. 

A visit to Casa Alianza Mexico

On March 21st, 15 Local Childcare Consultants and Cultural Care staff visited Casa Alianza Mexico during a recent trip to Mexico City. We were welcomed by the Casa Alianza team and had the chance to connect with 30 of the teens they support—adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18 who have experienced significant challenges, including abandonment, trafficking, and violence. 

Casa Alianza provides shelter, meals, crisis care, and a supportive environment where teens can begin to heal. With a strong staff-to-teen ratio, it was clear how much care and attention each young person receives. 

During our visit, we toured their facility, including the vibrant urban garden we helped fund. The teens now help grow everything from tomatoes to arugula—and even hot chili peppers, though they rarely last long, since the teens love snacking on them! It was meaningful to hear directly from them how the garden has become a source of calm, responsibility, and connection. 

We also decorated spring-themed cakes together—a fun way to share time and laughter. One moment that stood out to all of us: learning that a teen who had only recently arrived smiled for the first time that day. 

We’re grateful for the experience and inspired by the important work Casa Alianza continues to do to support and empower these young people. 

The Truck That helps feed 2,600 Children

Nutritious meals don’t just happen. They’re the result of careful planning, dedicated people, and the right tools to make it all work. We’re pleased to announce a new grant supporting Fundación Alimentar Colombia as they continue providing meals to thousands of children across Cartagena every day.

At the heart of their operation is a hub kitchen that transforms recovered surplus food into nourishing meals, which are then delivered to five community kitchens across Cartagena. But reaching these kitchens can be challenging. Some routes involve steep, rugged terrain, and one of the organization’s current trucks is old and frequently breaks down. These challenges can make it difficult to deliver meals consistently and safely, especially when that meal may be the only reliable meal a child receives that day.

The Project

This grant will fund a new refrigerated truck designed to transport food safely to each community kitchen. The truck will include a refrigerated cargo area that meets food safety standards, helping ensure that every meal arrives fresh, safe, and on time.

This new truck will make a meaningful difference for the thousands of children counting on a nutritious meal each day.

Supporting Youth Cycling in Colombia

We’re proud to announce our new partnership with the Esteban Chaves Foundation, a Colombian organization that has spent the last nine years transforming the lives of children and youth through the power of sport. Rooted in the belief that every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential — regardless of their circumstances — the foundation uses cycling as a vehicle for empowerment, education, and community connection across under-resourced communities in and around Bogotá.

For many children in these communities, access to structured sport, mentorship, and safe spaces to grow is limited. The foundation uses cycling to create those opportunities, helping young people build confidence, develop skills, and find a sense of belonging. To date, more than 2,500 children have benefited from its programs.

The Project

This year, our grant supports the launch of PAT (Programa de Apoyo al Talento), a new initiative for young cyclists that brings together cycling development, life skills, and personal development. Inspired by Esteban Chaves’ own story, PAT will provide bicycles, training, and mentorship to approximately 70 youth ages 6 to 18 from rural and urban communities near Bogotá.

Our grant will specifically support the community engagement side of the program, helping provide opportunities for participants and their families to connect and grow together. This includes monthly educational workshops for parents, the Copa Kids cycling event, health check-ups, and family activities throughout the year.

By supporting families alongside young athletes, PAT aims to create a community around the sport — one where young people can develop not only as cyclists, but also as confident, healthy, and resilient individuals.

Meet our 2024 NYC Marathon runners

As we gear up for the 2024 New York City Marathon, we’re excited to introduce the amazing team of runners from the Cultural Care Au Pair community. They are representing and fundraising for Cultural Care Kids First Foundation as they train and run the marathon on November 3, 2024. Each year, we’re proud to have a dedicated group of individuals take on this challenge, with each person bringing their own motivation. Together, they embody the dedication and determination it takes to complete one of the world’s most famous races. Learn more about this year's runners: 

Amina, Cultural Care Staff Member 

• Running in support of Kids First because: I run for Kids First because it allows me to do something I love while making a difference for what matters most to me—helping where it's needed the most.

• Advice to runners: Just sign up for that race!

• Running mantra: The faster I run, the sooner I’m done.

• Favorite running music: Worship music

• Go to cross-training: Strength training 

• Snack of choice: Natural gels with honey and sea salt

• Learned through this journey: I can run much further and longer than I thought. It’s all in your head.

B.G., Host Dad 

• Running in support of Kids First because: Cultural Care supports families and kids all around the world in many, many ways. The Kids First Foundation is just another way that Cultural Care carries out their mission of making the lives of children better globally, something I could not be more honored to help support and bring attention to. 

• Advice to runners: You don’t have to run hard to get better, just run long, but easy!

• Running mantra: Where else would you rather be?! 

• Favorite running music: Soft EDM 

• Go to cross-training: HIIT workouts and squash 

• Snack of choice: Gu Gel and Nuun!

• Learned through this journey: I’ve learned to enjoy the process of training through long, easy runs. There’s a cathartic side to it I didn’t expect.

Blythe, Host Mom 

• Running in support of Kids First because: I'm excited to run in support of Kids First as I have experienced firsthand how Cultural Care supports, nurtures, and guides au pairs and host families through their respective journeys. I trust a charitable organization managed by Cultural Care will apply the same diligence to their fundraising and grant recipient selections.

• Advice to runners: Believe in the warmup. Mile two is always easier than mile one.

• Running mantra: Let’s go!

• Favorite running music: Bob Seger’s Still the Same 

• Go to cross-training: Biking 

• Snack of choice: Butter and jam on a roll

• Learned through this journey: I might beat my time from 18 years ago!

Caroline, Au Pair 

• Running in support of Kids First because: I wish to run for this association to help children dream. If I can run the marathon, it will prove to them that they can do whatever they want in life!

• Advice to runners: Trust yourself. If you think you can do it, you can!

• Running mantra: Trust the process.

• Favorite running music: Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour 

• Snack of choice: Energy waffles

• Learned through this journey: I can actually do it if I want to.

Chavón, Au Pair 

• Running in support of Kids First because: Running the NYC Marathon with Cultural Care and Kids First intertwines my strides with purpose, weaving dreams into reality for children's education and nurturing. Every step echoes hope and transformation on New York City's streets.

• Advice to runners: Focus on yourself and don’t compare yourself to other runners. 

• Running mantra: Just keep running, running, running…(Inspired by Finding Nemo) 

• Favorite running music: Christian podcasts 

• Snack of choice: Goop

• Learned through this journey: You can do anything!

Jeanne, Au Pair 

• Running in support of Kids First because: I'm running to support Kids First because I believe in the cause. I want to be an example of bravery and belief for the children, showing them that they can overcome any challenge.

• Advice to runners: Never give up!

• Running mantra: Every step taken is a victory.

• Favorite running music: Anything that gives energy 

• Snack of choice: Energy gel

• Learned through this journey: Even after a long workday, I still find energy to run.

Kerrin, Cultural Care Staff Member 

• Running in support of Kids First because: I'm thrilled to be running my first marathon with Kids First, having witnessed the foundation’s global impact on children in need. As part of the Cultural Care family, I’m so excited to contribute to this amazing cause!

• Advice to runners: Take it one step at a time and remember why you're doing this.

• Running mantra: You can do this.

• Go to cross-training: Spin classes 

• Snack of choice: Huma chai energy gels for a boost on long runs

• Learned through this journey: So many challenges are mental. With a positive attitude, you can achieve more than you ever thought possible.

Laura, Cultural Care Staff Member 

• Running in support of Kids First because: I've always loved having challenges because it makes you grow! Running the marathon is a personal challenge, but also running in support of Kids First is a great opportunity to make an impact for kids in need. Just giving a few hours of my time and effort makes me embrace that challenge with a smile!

• Advice to runners: Enjoy your runs and train!

• Running mantra: You are amazing! You’re an example, I’m so proud of you.

• Favorite running music: Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour 

• Go to cross-training: Fitness exercises

• Learned through this journey: I used to hate running, but now, nothing is impossible! I told myself I would never run—look at me now.

Miriam, Local Childcare Consultant 

• Running in support of Kids First because: Kids First motivated me to run for a purpose to help kids in need. Last year, they built a garden [at an orphanage for abandoned kids] in Mexico, and that inspired me to help the children of my country!

• Advice to runners: Enjoy every mile.

• Running mantra: 3 songs, 1 mile! Enjoy.

• Favorite running music: I Gotta Feeling 

• Go to cross-training: Orangetheory 

• Snack of choice: Water

• Learned through this journey: I can do my best every day.

Sam, Host Dad 

• Running in support of Kids First because: I am very excited to run the NYC marathon as I have qualified for the Boston Marathon, a longstanding goal. In addition to this opportunity, I am thrilled to further the Kids First goals through this fundraising venture.

• Advice to runners: Run the mile you’re in—focus on the moment, not the race. 

• Running mantra: You got this.

• Favorite running music: Don’t Stop Believin’ 

• Go to cross-training: Swimming 

• Snack of choice: Cliff bar

• Learned through this journey: Age really does catch up to you.

Saskia, Au Pair  

• Running in support of Kids First because: Running in support of Kids First gives me the opportunity to support children in need while ticking off a major bucket list item. Every mile I run supports a child in need, and that's an incredible feeling.

• Advice to runners: The first two miles are the hardest. A positive attitude is key.

• Running mantra: You can do difficult things.

• Favorite running music: Up by Forrest Frank 

• Snack of choice: Beef chomps

• Learned through this journey: I’m better at running faster than long distances, but I’m improving every week.

Each runner’s journey is unique, but together they share a commitment to helping children through Kids First. Every mile they run makes a difference, bringing them closer to their personal goals and supporting children in need around the world. We can’t wait to cheer them on! 

Feeding kids in Colombia

We’re proud to feature two new grant recipients—Fundación Alimentar Colombia and Compassion Kitchens—who are making a significant impact on childhood malnutrition and food insecurity. These organizations are making a tangible difference in the lives of children in need through their commitment to providing daily food kitchens in their communities. 

Fundación Alimentar Colombia 

Fundación Alimentar Colombia is dedicated to reducing childhood malnutrition through their communal kitchens program. They currently operate five kitchens in Cartagena, serving over 1,600 children daily with hot, nutritious meals prepared from surplus food recovered from local markets and restaurants. These kitchens are supported by their central hub kitchen that turns the recovered food into delicious meals for the children. 

They employ a unique model where children from these communities, who live in makeshift housing without municipal services like running water or electricity, contribute to the kitchen by collecting and bringing trash to the kitchen. This helps manage waste removal, as there is no regular trash collection in the communities where these kitchens operate. The approach emphasizes teaching children responsibility and community values, including waiting patiently, bringing clean food containers, and treating each other with kindness and respect. 

The project 

We are funding a project that aims to enhance their hub kitchen facility by upgrading the kitchen infrastructure to meet food safety standards and creating additional storage space. It also involves acquiring modern cooking equipment to increase efficiency and capacity. Currently at their limit for the number of children they can support, these enhancements will allow the kitchens to extend their services to an additional 1,000 children living in extreme poverty, advancing their mission to provide essential nourishment. 

Compassion Kitchens 

Compassion Kitchens focuses on addressing food insecurity among children by supporting community-based kitchens across Colombia. They provide vital assistance by secures funding for eight local kitchens to ensure they have a reliable supply of food to serve. With a 100% volunteer-driven model, Compassion Kitchens ensures that donations directly fund food purchases. 

The project 

The initiative supports the kitchen Comedor Pan y Vida, located in a homeless encampment in Bogotá, and Comedor Infantil "Campo De La Cruz," situated in one of Atlántico’s most impoverished areas. This project will sustain food purchases for both kitchens for the next year, feeding approximately 200 children daily. These kitchens are crucial for providing meals to children living in challenging environments. 

Impacting 2,800 children daily 

Supporting projects that address essential physiological needs, such as nutrition, is crucial for children’s growth and well-being. By funding these two initiatives, Kids First is making a significant impact, helping a total of 2,800 children receive a meal every weekday in Colombia. This support not only provides essential nourishment but also contributes to their overall development and quality of life, creating a healthier and brighter future. 

Making two foster houses feel like home

We are pleased to share another grant project we are supporting, highlighting the impactful work of the Santa Fé Beneficent Association (Santa Fé). For over 30 years, Santa Fé has been a cornerstone of social justice in Brazil, dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and adolescents. Their mission focuses on upholding the Child and Adolescent Statute (Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente, ECA), combating violence, and breaking cycles of poverty to ensure every child’s development and autonomy.

The ECA is a comprehensive legal framework in Brazil that guarantees a wide range of rights for children and adolescents, including protection from abuse and neglect, and access to education and health services. It emphasizes the role of family and community in supporting children’s development and outlines the state's responsibilities in providing protective measures and services.

Santa Fé operates across four key areas: managing residential care centers for children aged 0-18, supporting infants through volunteer family homes, offering aftercare for those who have left shelters, and assisting families to promote sustainable reunification. Their holistic approach addresses the needs of children affected by neglect and abuse, aiming for long-term positive change.

The project

With funding from the Cultural Care Kids First Foundation, Santa Fé will enhance its two residential care centers by acquiring freezers, refrigerators, and new furniture, as well as by building a library. Additionally, the Cultural Care office in São Paulo is hosting a book drive to collect Portuguese books from staff and former and future au pairs to fill the library. These improvements will help create a more supportive and homelike environment for the children they serve, fostering resilience and well-being. 

Establishing a dental clinic

We are excited to announce our new project and grant recipient, Global Dental Relief (GDR). With GDR, we are supporting the establishment of a new dental clinic in the remote village of Chan Chen, Mexico. GDR, headquartered in Colorado, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free dental care and oral health education to children worldwide. Operating within the United States and internationally, GDR provides complete dental care to over 20,000 children each year! 

The project 

The remote village of Chan Chen is located over 75 miles away from any dental care options for its community, making it a full day's journey to access care. Even when accessible, families often struggle to afford dental services, leaving children to grow up without proper care. Recognizing this need, GDR will initiate the opening of a dental clinic this October to provide free, first-time dental care and oral health education to 1,400 children living in the Mayan Jungle. 

Volunteer dentists, hygienists, and non-dental volunteers will work for 10 days, offering examinations, cleanings, restorations, and extractions as needed for children visiting the clinic. Each child will receive a complimentary toothbrush and fluoride application, with follow-up care provided 3 to 4 times throughout the clinic until dental health is restored. 

GDR ensures continuity of care by returning every 12-18 months, bridging the gap in dental services for the community. Throughout the clinic, three sessions of extensive oral health education are provided, focusing on brushing techniques and proper nutrition. The aim is to instill lifelong habits for healthier smiles for years to come! 

Volunteering at Denver Au Pair Life 

At our Au Pair Life event in Denver this April, staff from GDR joined au pairs and Cultural Care staff to bundle toothbrushes for upcoming international dental clinics, totaling 3,900 toothbrushes—enough to supply four international dental clinics! 

Additionally, a toothbrush donation drive was hosted, inviting all attendees to bring a toothbrush to donate to GDR, ensuring each child receives a free toothbrush. Nearly 250 toothbrushes were collected! 

In partnership with Global Dental Relief and the incredible support from volunteers and donors, we're thrilled this grant will take a significant step towards improving oral health access in Chan Chen, Mexico. With the establishment of the new dental clinic, we're laying the groundwork for brighter smiles and healthier futures for the children of the Mayan Jungle!  

Molo Mhlaba school completed, additional grant awarded

We are thrilled to announce that, after months of construction, storm repairs, and a tremendous amount of hard work, the exterior of the Molo Mhlaba Montclair campus classrooms were successfully completed in late fall 2023. The milestone was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, signifying the official conclusion of this phase of the school's construction and the successful fulfillment of our $50,000 grant to build the classrooms. With this phase now completed, the next critical step is to furnish the classrooms. 

Our community is deeply connected to the positive impact of this school and has expressed a strong desire to continue supporting Molo Mhlaba in its mission to welcome students. In recognition of our commitment, Kids First awarded Molo Mhlaba an additional grant to cover the costs of furnishing the classrooms and providing Montessori classroom learning materials. 

The Cultural Care Au Pair offices spread love to Montclair, South Africa by hosting a Valentine’s Day fundraiser. During the week of Valentine’s Day, we sold candy-grams – Valentine cards containing a sweet note and some chocolate – across offices in Austin, Boston, Denver, and Zurich. Simultaneously, our Berlin office hosted their version of this fundraiser through a waffle sale. We successfully reached our collective goal of raising $2,500! Cultural Care Au Pair matched this amount, contributing to the full $5,000 grant. 

We are grateful for the success of this sweet fundraiser as it enables the provision of classroom materials that will enhance the learning environment for the girls. Join us in spreading the love! Consider donating to Kids First today.  

Learn more about the project on our YouTube channel: Helping Under-Privileged Girls Gain Quality Education.

New year, new creative ways to give back

As we find ourselves several weeks into the New Year, we hope your journey toward achieving any resolutions has started strong. If one of your resolutions involves giving back more, Kids First offers numerous avenues for you to make a meaningful impact. Consider various ways to give back, such as donating, getting involved, or thinking outside the box for ways to make an impact. 

In the spirit of creative generosity, Amy Glenane, a friend of Cultural Care, took a different approach to her 50th birthday celebration. Instead of hosting a big birthday party, she sent $50 to 50 people, including friends like Cultural Care staff member Amy Connolly, and invited them to use that money for an act of kindness. The possibilities were endless—whether it was covering a stranger's meal in a drive-thru or contributing to a cause they cared about. It showcased that acts of kindness can take on various forms. 

Amy Connolly, inspired by this gesture, not only used her $50 to contribute to the Cultural Care Kids First Foundation but also added a personal donation of $50. Cultural Care matched both contributions 100%, resulting in a total combined donation of $200. 

This story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to celebrate significant moments in ways that bring joy not only to themselves but also to the entire community. Amy's story, along with the generosity of her friends, encourages us to consider others when we mark big moments in our lives. 

If you're seeking ideas, here are three ways for you to contribute and double your impact: 

Opt for Donations Instead of Birthday Gifts:  

Choose to support a cause on your special day! With Evite, you can suggest a charity to your guests in lieu of traditional gifts. When creating your invitation, click on “Gifting,” select “Support your school or charity,” and input “Cultural Care Kids First Foundation.” Any contributions will directly benefit Kids First! 

Organize a Restaurant Night with Friends:  

Collaborate with a local restaurant and request them to contribute a percentage of all orders to Kids First. Once the event is over, they can mail us a check, turning a delightful evening into support for a great cause! 

Turn Spring Cleaning into a Fundraiser:  

Prepare for your spring cleaning by hosting a yard sale! Extend invitations to your neighbors, emphasizing that all proceeds will be donated to Kids First. 

We hope these ideas inspire you to approach giving back differently in 2024. For any questions on how to host a fundraiser or get involved, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]!