Babies can be both the sweetest reward and biggest challenge of our lives. Research shows a child’s experiences in their first 5 years shapes their future. That is a lot of responsibility. We know you are the best person for the job – and we are here to help. On this page, you’ll find local resources for your family, information on parenting, and much more.
Get help with everything related to child care, from finding care to financial support to pay for it.
What you need to know to help your child grow up healthy and thrive.
Contact Help Me Grow to get a free developmental screening.
Understand your health insurance options, find affordable plans, and receive free, confidential help.
© 2023 First 5 San Mateo County
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.
