A Generational Pioneer in Early Learning Continues to Lead Oregon’s Literacy Movement

Multitude of Mercies Foundation has been selected as an official partner in the Oregon
Department of Early Learning & Care’s Early Literacy Success Program, a statewide initiative
committed to reshaping the future of early childhood learning. This recognition cements MOM’s
place as one of Oregon’s premier early-learning institutions—an organization whose impact has
already spanned three generations of Black families.

DELC’s Early Literacy initiative focuses on giving children birth to age five—including those
from historically underserved communities—rich, culturally resonant, foundational literacy
experiences that set them on a lifelong trajectory of academic success. MOM’s Early Roots
Preschool embodies this vision. Its curriculum pairs early reading and numeracy with cultural
storytelling, hands-on STEM, music, movement, nature exploration, and identity-affirming
narratives by Black authors, artists, and educators.

For decades, MOM has stood as an anchor in North Portland—a place where families know their
children will be educated, affirmed, and seen. Many of its current parents were once students in
MOM’s programs, continuing a cycle of generational learning that is rare and deeply treasured.
Some grandparents who once attended MOM’s early literacy circles now watch their
grandchildren learn in classrooms shaped by the same loving, culturally grounded philosophy.

This is the power of a three-generation institution.

DELC’s Early Literacy funding will allow MOM to expand its literacy-rich programming,
enhance family engagement, and strengthen community-based early learning partnerships.
Activities reflected in MOM’s AABSS plans—such as cultural heritage storytime programming,
family literacy workshops, and early learning readiness supports for 3–5 year olds—align
directly with DELC’s mandate to close early literacy gaps and strengthen readiness statewide.

MOM brings something unique to the statewide landscape: not only high-quality early learning,
but a generational trust that cannot be manufactured. Families return because they know MOM
produces confident, articulate, joyful learners who become leaders.

The foundation’s mission, as shared on its website, emphasizes nurturing the whole child—
spiritually, culturally, academically, and emotionally. DELC’s vision for early literacy success

finds a natural, powerful partner in Multitude of Mercies Foundation. Together, they are building
a future where every child reads, thrives, and leads.

This award is more than an investment in early literacy. It is an investment in a generational
legacy—a legacy MOM has been cultivating for over thirty years, and one that will continue to
shape Oregon’s children for decades to come.