Karla Pleitéz Howell | First 5 LA Executive Director

January 23, 2023 

This past weekend should have been a festive Lunar New Year celebration in Monterey Park, bringing together families and communities, but instead a joyous gathering was marred by yet another senseless mass shooting.  

My heart goes out to the victim’s families, and all impacted by the tragic violence in the San Gabriel Valley.  

Creating safe and inclusive spaces in L.A. County for all young children to thrive is at the heart of our work at First 5 LA. Let this be the continued motivation for us all to do the important work we have before us to help prevent another tragedy.  

We mourn for the families who lost loved ones in Monterey Park and grieve for all who have experienced loss and who continue to be impacted by gun violence in our country.  




Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month 2023

Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month 2023

September 2023 National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15, is a dedicated recognition of the rich history, culture, and invaluable contributions of Hispanic Americans. Specifically, the month pays homage to Hispanic Americans...

The Landscape of Home-Based Child Care in Los Angeles County

The Landscape of Home-Based Child Care in Los Angeles County

August 2023 One issue critical to addressing societal challenges and economic drivers is child care. In order for parents to work or go to school and maintain economic stability for their families, child care is essential. Child care enables families, workplaces, and...

Translate