Huda Daycare, Sonia

Sacramento, California

Originally from Afghanistan, Sonia arrived in Sacramento in 2016 with her family and a background in early childhood education. She had a goal of becoming a businesswoman. In early 2023, Sonia graduated from the IRC‘s childcare program and soon opened her in-home childcare center, Huda Daycare, in Sacramento.

Huda Daycare began as a small, home-based daycare with only a few children enrolled. The initial days were challenging but fulfilling, and through positive word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied parents, Huda Daycare steadily grew.

“In the heart of our town, a dream was born—a dream to create a nurturing haven where children could learn, grow, and shine bright like stars. That dream became a reality with the inception of Huda Daycare,” Sonia said.

Sonia operated her center from a three-bedroom apartment, caring for eight children in one shift. With one year of experience running her daycare successfully, she has a growing waitlist and parents reaching out for additional shifts. Excited about the business growth and increased enrollments, Sonia needed capital to expand and meet the demand.

Sonia was connected to the IRC California Mosaic Small Business Center and enrolled. With the help of her counselor, she worked to package a business loan application. Throughout this process, her counselor assisted in developing a business plan, financial projects, a marketing strategy, and credit education. Sonia applied for and was approved for a $10,000 loan through IRC’s Center for Economic Opportunity (CEO). With the capital, she can purchase equipment and expand her daycare. This expansion will allow her to operate three shifts, accommodating more children and enhancing the environment for their development.

“As we celebrate the success of Huda Daycare, we recognize that behind every achievement are the smiles, laughter, and bright futures of the children who call it home. Here’s to many more years of growth, learning, and making a difference in the lives of our little stars!” Sonia said.