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Mr. VARGAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Maria Rosales, an outstanding community member and small business owner. Her journey to the United States was challenging, as she faced a treacherous route while sustaining her basic needs and facing the fear of the unknown.
Ms. Rosales came to the United States on this journey from Mexico when she was only 16 years old, alongside her sister and her sister's husband. Maria met her husband here in the United States in 1987, and in 2011 they were both granted citizenship. This allowed them to get one step closer toward achieving their American Dream.
Ms. Rosales' first job as a nanny paved the way to her newfound passion for taking care of children--and she grew this passion enough to also help others. In 2019, while many parents within her community were having a tough time finding the proper care and attention that their children needed, Maria stepped up to provide a safe and loving place to leave their children while they work. Her commitment led her to an opportunity to complete a childcare class with the San Diego & Imperial Women's Business Center, which is an 8-week accelerator program to become an in-home family childcare facility. She was determined to be the best at what she does, and she took classes in marketing, finance, and other courses to start her own business. This training provided her with the tools to develop a safe space for children where they can develop their academic and socio-emotional abilities.
Ms. Rosales opened Vienna's Daycare, a home daycare, where children are encouraged to reach their developmental milestones that help them succeed in the future. Ms. Rosales continues to be a beacon of light for those who aspire to take their passion and apply it toward valuable community service.
Ms, Rosales was honored as the 52nd District Constituent of the Month, during National Women's Small Business Month in October, for her admirable commitment to supporting families and parents, and for her unwavering strength, which will inspire others for generations to come.
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