Tynisa Stone is living her dream taking care of kids at her own daycare center Books & Blocks in central Bakersfield.
"I love kids, I don't know what else to say other than that, I've always loved kids," Stone said.
Stone provides a home away from home for kids, but just a few years ago Stone was homeless with her own three children after a divorce.
"It's life, you know life happens to all of us, you lie down and cry or you get up and do what you need to do," Stone said.
To help support her kids, the Bakersfield Homeless Center coached Stone through United Way's FISH Program or the Financial Independence Starts Here Program. FISH helps working families save money to secure a better future.
"We are very excited for Tenisa's recent success and we hope she is the first of many," Carmen Bernal, Kern County United Way, said.
Stone is the first graduate of the FISH Program, which is funded with grants from Kern County's United Way - an organization that builds partnerships to tackle community issues. Program participants attend financial planning classes and are required to save $1,000 to $2,000 over two years. When participants reach their savings goal, the program will match their money. They can earn up to $6,000 to buy a home, pay for school or open a small business like Stone.
"With the training and the help I run the business more efficient now," Stone said.
Stone used her money to buy toys and equipment for her daycare she opened in March. She is licensed for eight kids and hopes to grow her business.
Ten low income working families are currently in enrolled in FISH, but program leaders said they are ready to enroll more.
To find out if you qualify for the FISH Program you can attend the orientation on September 23 at United Way of Kern County.
United Way Kern County
5405 Stockdale Hwy., Suite 200
661-834-1820
