Daddy is both parents now. The Duval Family lost their Mommy last year when her baby was born.  The family was thrown into chaos at the unexpected loss.  Demetrius was suddenly the sole caregiver for four children, including the newborn.  Quickly, medical and funeral expenses mounted. Demetrius was dealing with these expenses and his very personal loss, all while trying to keep day-to-day life for his children as normal as possible.  Amid this crisis, Demetrius felt as if he had no where to turn in his time of trouble.  Then, United Way of Manatee County stepped in and the issue of child care for these four children was resolved immediately.  The temporary funding from United Way continued until their child care was transitioned into other funding sources.  Without that help, this beautiful family might have not have been able to remain together.

Today, the children attend Children’s Academy of Southwest Florida, Inc.  Daddy gets them up and ready for school, sharing kisses and hugs as he drops each one off at their classroom before he goes to work. Just after 4:00, he returns to gather up book bags and children, speaking with teachers about his children’s progress.  Ja’Lynn chats away about her day. Dominique tugs at his Daddy’s shirt, sharing today’s art work. Darrius trots along side his father’s leg, while Darren smiles at his daddy from his car seat. Daddy answers his daughter and oohs and ahhs over the soon-to-be refrigerator art.