Our work is about seeing inequity in the lives of children and families and trying to do something about it. The events of 2020 have shown us the critical importance of this, now more than ever. We have been honored to play a role in San Mateo County’s efforts to
This month, Congregation Beth Am, Community Equity Collaborative and Good2Know Network partnered in sponsoring a screening event for the film No Small Matter, which highlights the importance of early childhood education and the importance of our local childcare and education providers as vital pillars in our community. First 5 San
Wondering how child care providers are operating during the COVID-19 pandemic? First 5 San Mateo County and our partners organized a panel of local professionals to share the latest information, policies, and practices for child care in San Mateo County. Watch the town hall recording to learn more about what
The deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor are tragic reminders of the country’s legacy of racism and discrimination that harm all our communities. First 5 San Mateo County stands against racism, oppression, and inequality in all its forms. We stand in solidarity with our fellow First 5s across
If you feel like you’re experiencing more emotional distress and hardship than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic, know that you are not alone. Talking about your experience can open doors for other parents to do the same, and help build connection and resiliency in your community. Today, we’re shining the spotlight
Written by Christine Padilla, Director of Build Up for San Mateo’s Children San Mateo County, along with five neighboring counties, were the first in the nation to implement shelter-in-place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We couldn’t be prouder of our local leadership. As we led then, I hope we will
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Kitty Lopez has served as the Executive Director of First 5 San Mateo County since 2012, focusing on policy, advocacy and communications development. Additionally, she is the Chair of First 5 Association of California. Kitty previously served as the Executive Director of Samaritan House, one of the leading safety-net nonprofit agencies serving low-income families and individuals in San Mateo County with food, shelter, clothing, health care, counseling, education classes, and holiday assistance from 2002 to 2012.
Kitty taught kindergarten, second grade, and high school in the Bay Area and in Santa Barbara, and was a consultant in schools with children who have autism and special needs. Additionally, Kitty worked in a residential substance abuse treatment center in San Francisco and psychiatric hospital in San Diego.
She attended University of California Santa Barbara earning a California Teaching Credential and B.A in Psychology. Kitty is active in her community serving on several community boards including HEART (Housing Endowment and Regional Trust of San Mateo County), STEP (Success Through Education Program), and Past President and Current Member of the San Mateo Rotary Club.
