PROJECT ANNOUNCEMENT: NEWCOMER HOME CHILD CARE EXPANSION IN CENTRAL ONTARIO Fall 2021 – Spring 2024

PETERBOROUGH, January 19, 2022– It is with much anticipation that we announce the commencement of the project, Newcomer Home Child Care Expansion in Central Ontario. Funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada, this project will address systemic barriers while licensing 30 new Home Child Care Providers across Central Ontario.

This project will create systemic change by easing entry into this career pathway for newcomers to Canada and low-income women, non-binary and trans people, while building understanding in municipal partners and equity-seeking community organizations of the barriers facing low-income and newcomer women entering the field of childcare in order to drive services that reflect their needs for income stability.

“Childcare is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. When parents are supported in our communities, we increase women’s participation in the workforce and create opportunities for children to learn and grow. Our government committed $30 billion to establish a Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care System and we are acting on our promise. Projects like the Newcomer Home Childcare Expansion are a key part of building an inclusive and resilient economy.”

The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth

To support the work’s processes and address intersectional needs, Compass Early Learning and Care will be working with the New Canadian Centre and Indigenize.ca. Additionally, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Region of Durham, Northumberland County, City of Peterborough, Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, Association of Early Childhood Educators, Home Child Care Association of Ontario, and Andrew Fleck Children’s Services have been identified as key partners and stakeholders.

About Compass Early Learning and Care

Compass Early Learning and Care is a progressive, non-profit, organization where we work collaboratively to provide excellence in early learning and care. The richness and uniqueness of our learning environments are an invitation for adults and children to discover together the joy of learning. Compass Early Learning and Care envisions a place where children are valued as citizens of today; where the principles of democracy guide relationships with children, families, colleagues and our community.