Holy Cross Ministries delivers free early childhood education to families’ doorsteps

Photo: Holy Cross Ministries

PARK CITY, Utah — In living rooms across Summit County, parent educators from Holy Cross Ministries are transforming early childhood development one home visit at a time.

The organization’s Parents as Teachers program serves children from pregnancy through age 3, providing developmental assessments and learning activities directly in families’ homes. “Every person in my staff has the heart to be where they are,” said Miriam Nieto, HCM’s director of education. “They go far and beyond in connecting with families, providing resources, and making sure parents feel empowered to be the first teachers for their children.”

Parent educators conduct vision and hearing screenings while tracking developmental milestones. They also provide essential materials—from books to tummy time blankets—to ensure that all families can access early learning tools regardless of their economic status.

The program extends beyond home visits through monthly Parent Group Connection nights, where families share experiences and learn from professionals about topics ranging from child development to immigration rights. “We want families to know they are not alone,” Nieto said. “These gatherings create a support system among parents raising children in similar circumstances.”

HCM’s commitment to early education continues with its School Readiness Program at St. Mary’s Church, which serves 3—and 4-year-olds in a full-day preschool setting. “Our program has been here for 15 years, and it started because we saw the gap,” Nieto said. “Children entering elementary school were already behind, and we knew we had to start earlier.”

The preschool program operates on an income-based tuition scale, making it accessible to families who might otherwise lack affordable options. Beyond traditional academics, it emphasizes social and emotional development. “We focus on the whole child,” Nieto said. “Beyond learning shapes and colors, it’s about fostering a sense of belonging.”

Nieto hopes the community recognizes the impact of early education and the dedication of those delivering it,”My staff is incredible. They don’t just show up — they invest in these families. They are planting seeds for the future.”

For more information on how to support Holy Cross Ministries’ early childhood programs, visit hcmutah.org.