Child care has been a top concern for working city parents throughout the coronavirus pandemic. But for essential workers with kids, the situation has been dire. 

Kindergartner Demetrius George is learning about complete sentences at day care while his mom has complete peace of mind at work. “If I didn’t have that, I don’t know what I would do,” says parent Monique Maison. 

The middle school principal is an essential worker--saying it's critical she has a place to leave her 5-year-old with academic support, socialization and a routine. 

Millie’s Day Care in the Wakefield section of the Bronx, owned by Mildred Augustine since 2005, is one part of that refuge for parents. 

“I love kids, so I just feel happy about it that I’m able to provide these services,” said Augustine. 

However, she says business has been tough. New occupancy restrictions because of COVID plus out-of-work parents means her 16 kids are down to seven. 

The nonprofit WHEDco, also known as Women’s Housing and Economic Development Corporation, has a division to help home-based child care service providers like Augustine. 

The decades-old organization works with thousands of providers throughout the city, including 300 licensed providers in the Bronx--giving them personal protective equipment, professional training and other assistance. 

Augustine says she is grateful. “It’s been very amazing, very wonderful working with WhedCo,” said Augustine.