“For the First Time Since Arriving in America, I Felt Like Someone Saw Me”

“When I first came to America, everything felt new, confusing and honestly overwhelming. I didn’t know the language, I didn’t understand the systems and I didn’t have anyone here that I trusted with my children. For the first three years, I didn’t go anywhere without my husband. I was too scared to leave the house alone. The world outside felt too big, too unfamiliar and I didn’t feel ready to face it by myself — especially with five children.

“At the same time, I wanted so badly to learn English so I could communicate, support my family and build a future here. But everywhere I looked, there was no place where I could learn English and keep my children with me. As a mother, I couldn’t imagine being separated from them, especially when everything around us was so unfamiliar.

“Then one day my friend told me about Festa. I didn’t know what to expect, but something in me said to try. So I went to the registration night, still nervous, still unsure and still fighting my fear of being out alone. I showed up with all five of my children— one of them a newborn in my arms. The line was long, and I remember standing there as the last person, feeling tired, scared and unsure if this would work out for us.

“And then I saw Kim.

“She walked over to me with so much kindness in her voice and her eyes. She talked to me gently, asked about my situation and told me that she might have a spot for me — if not at that time, then at another time. That moment changed everything. Her words made me feel safe, welcomed and understood. For the first time since arriving in America, I felt like someone saw me as a mother trying her best, and as a person who deserved support.

“That night, something inside me shifted. I felt a little braver. I felt like maybe I could step outside without fear. Maybe I could learn, grow and create a life here — not just for me, but for my children.

“Now, almost six years later, I’m still with Festa. They didn’t just give me English classes. They gave me confidence. They gave me a community. They gave me a place where I could learn without letting go of my children. I’m one of so many people who want exactly that: a safe, supportive place to learn English while keeping their children close.

“Festa made that possible for me, and I’ll always hold gratitude in my heart for what they did.”

— Zeinab, a Festa mom