“Matrix Saved Our Lives” A Head Start Mother Shares Her Story

At Matrix Human Services, our passion lies in transforming lives and empowering individuals to create a brighter future. We’re honored to share the impactful journey of a mother who took a profound turn with the support of our services. Through our Head Start program, her story reflects the power of compassion and dedication in changing her family’s life trajectory. Jacqueline Cuevas is a mother of three children: Rosalinda, Elisa, and Elias. She suffered from nonepileptic seizures since the age of five and was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2020. It made parenting difficult. During her pregnancy, she suffered from nearly 25 seizures a day and was in and out of medical facilities.

As a Head Start child herself, Jacqueline was well aware of the program’s numerous benefits. She made the decision to enroll her three children at one of our Head Start locations on Detroit’s Southwest side, knowing that it would provide them with a safe and nurturing environment. She fondly recalls the support of Ms. Williams, Ms. Sam, and Ms. Kay, who were a tremendous help to her family. Here’s Jacqueline’s story.

“Head Start made it easy for me to get care. It was a tough time for our family. My husband couldn’t get time off work to help with the girls. Our family advocate told us that Matrix offered classes for babies up to three years old. I decided that would be the best option for our family so that I could get the medical attention that I needed. My husband was apprehensive about the program; being from the Dominican Republic, he needed help understanding the culture of childcare and the Early Head Start program. The center director, family advocate, and teachers took the time to explain the program’s benefits and how it could help the children develop motor skills in a nurturing and loving environment when I could barely get out of bed.

Matrix Head Start was more than just a place for my children to learn and play; it was a place where I could manage my illness with peace of mind. Matrix helped with so many services. They helped the whole family. As each child progressed through Head Start, Jacqueline became more involved with the center. The teachers told me I was a leader and asked me to become a chairperson at the center. They took me and other parent leaders to Kalahari Resort in Ohio to train us. I built such beautiful relationships with everyone. For the first time in my life, someone showed me that I was worth investing in, worth teaching. They believed in me. There were so many activities for parents. With Matrix Head Start, my children were ahead of the curve.

What would I say to someone in need of services? Asking for and receiving help doesn’t mean that you have failed. It demonstrates your determination and commitment to succeed. That success carries with each individual for their lifespan, not just for that moment. At Matrix, you will not be judged or ignored. Allow yourself to be held up and supported.

Being a part of this experience and the Matrix family gave me value. Especially for my community, it taught me that I could do things. Despite my condition, I had something to offer. I wasn’t just an individual. I was a member of the family. It gave me confidence. The leadership skills I gained helped me to get into a fellowship community program.

Matrix Human Services saved our lives and our family. Today, my husband and I are the proud business owners of Junction Party Store and are very active in our community. Rosalinda, Elisa, and Elias are wonderful, bright children who will be entering 9th, 6th, and 2nd grade. No matter how many accolades I receive, I will proudly scream from the top of my lungs that it started with Matrix Human Services!”