ENTREPRENEUR feature: Millie Carbajal of M&M 24Hr Daycare
In 2010, Millie Carbajal launched M&M 24Hr Daycare. Since inception, Ms. Carbajal has focused on serving the Bronx community by providing high quality childcare in a safe environment at any time of day. M&M fosters an atmosphere in which children can learn and have fun. At the same time, parents who work both conventional and non-conventional hours can feel assured that their young children are well-cared for and receive important learning experiences.
Growth in the 3 locations in the Bronx has been steady, with most of her business coming through recommendations from parents happy with the care their children receive. Millie was concerned that the Pandemic would cause her to have to close her 24-hour day care, however, she continued to provide her services to essential care workers and their families.
As part of the community, M&M is actively engaged in multiple activities to enrich the lives of parents and children by both participating in, and hosting, public events. They focus on events that educate parents and children on important issues like health, and those that are designed to bring the community together like family barbecues and celebrations of major holidays such as their annual Easter egg hunt.
Millie and her business have been recognized by the PowerUp Grant Program for Latino-owned businesses from which she received a $5,000 grant and free coaching. In addition, she received a $10,000 grant from the LISC NYC Small Business Relief & Recovery Fund
In 2020, M&M purchased their first small building. Millie plans to open her 4th location in the Bronx. The first floor of the building will be a M&M 24Hr daycare facility and the top two floors will be rentals.
her words:
“WEALF has played an instrumental role in my business cultivation. They offered interest free loans that allowed me to expand my evening care. They assisted in the development of my website, which turned out great.
Mentoring is the most valuable resource I have received from WEALF. WEALF mentors are above extraordinary. They are successful, experienced and generous with their knowledge.
I am proud to be a mentee of WEALF Organization. I will continue to seek their guidance and invaluable advice.”