Elected officials and early learning community partners were joined by local families this morning to celebrate the official grand opening of new child care and early learning facilities at the Grafton Community Centre.
These facilities include the first EarlyON Child and Family Centre in Alnwick/Haldimand, and the first ‘family age-grouping’ child care centre in Northumberland, where siblings of all ages will be cared for in the same space.
Renovations began in July at the Grafton Community Centre to accommodate these new programs, supported by a capital investment of more than $500,000 from the Ontario Ministry of Education, with early learning and child care funding from the federal government.
This investment made possible the creation of 15 new child care spaces for the community, along with a space for EarlyON programming, where families with children up to six years of age can enjoy free drop-in programs.
The Grafton EarlyON Centre will offer a stimulating and nurturing environment for kids and families to learn and play, as well as access to advice from trained early childhood development professionals and information about local services.
The free programming, delivered in partnership with YMCA Northumberland, includes play-based activities such as reading, storytelling, sing-alongs and games.
Quotes
“Our government is committed to making life easier for parents and that means improving accessibility and affordability in child care. We want families to choose the kind of care that is best suited for their children so parents can go to work, run a business or study to acquire new skills.” Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education
“This is fantastic news for the families of Grafton. New child care spaces in Northumberland County means better learning environments for our children and greater opportunity for parents and families.” David Piccini, MPP, Northumberland—Peterborough South
“We are so pleased to celebrate the official launch of these important services, and we thank the province and the federal government for the investment that made this possible. These facilities respond to the growing local demand for licensed childcare spaces, as well as feedback from community members seeking additional locations for early years programming. Area residents can now access resources closer to home that will support the healthy development and well-being of children and families.” Bob Sanderson, Acting Warden, Northumberland County
“We welcome the expanded availability of child care services and early learning programming in our community. This creates new opportunities for families to engage in activities that will help children learn, grow and thrive. It was wonderful to mark the grand opening with a ribbon cutting today, and we invite families to visit the EarlyON Centre and enjoy the programming.” Gail Latchford, Acting Mayor, Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
