She Treats Every Child Like Her Own — Then The Community Surprises Her

March 21, 2026

A beloved daycare worker who loves the children as her own has been surprised and rewarded by the community for her kindness and compassion.

Ms. Angi reads to Casey. Photo: KFOR

Leaving a baby in someone else’s care for the first time is never easy—but for one couple in Oklahoma City, that fear quickly turned into gratitude.

When Anna and Cory Vitale dropped off their daughter Casey at daycare, they were understandably nervous. “Obviously, as new parents, we were very nervous,” Anna said.

But it didn’t take long to feel at ease—especially after seeing how their baby reacted to her teacher, Angi Garner.

“It’s almost offensive,” Cory joked. “She immediately turns away from Dad, and leans into Ms. Angi… like she just wants to go in her arms.”

Now 9 months old, Casey has spent much of her life with Angi, forming a special bond that means everything to her parents. “When we drop Casey off, we know we’re putting her in a place where she’s going to get the kind of love that we want her to get,” Cory said.

Angi has been caring for children for more than 40 years and is known for her kindness both in and out of the classroom.

“Most of the time when you ask her what she's doing on the weekend it's usually some form of volunteering. She's just a woman of service that cares for so many other people.”

Wanting to say thank you, the Vitales surprised her with a $400 Pay It 4Ward award and flowers.

“You’ve quickly become family to us,” Anna told her.

Through tears, Angi accepted the gift—while Casey reached out for a hug from the woman who treats her like her own.