QUOTES "Culturally relevant child care and early years programs are important for Indigenous families. This funding gives more Indigenous children access to high-quality child care and child and family programs in their communities." — Indira Naidoo-Harris, Minister of Education and Minister Responsible for Early Years and Child Care "Creating culturally relevant child care and learning spaces that celebrate the rich history, cultures and languages of Indigenous people, positively impacts students' self-identity and has been proven to lead to better academic outcomes. Expanding child and family programs and licensed child care services is critical. Improving learning opportunities for Indigenous students like those attending the First Nations School of Toronto is part of our commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples." — David Zimmer, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation "We are pleased about this expansion in child care and child and family programs in Ontario Friendship Centres through Journey Together. Fifteen Friendship Centres across the province will receive expanded programs and services through this next phase of investments. We know this will have a positive impact for urban Indigenous people living in cities and towns across Ontario. The long-term effects of adequately investing in our children will be felt for generations to come." — Sylvia Maracle, Executive Director of the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres "Indigenous families will, for the first time in many parts of Ontario, have access to Indigenous led early years and child care programs. The Kenora District Services Board will work with our Indigenous partners to implement programs based on respect, unity and the restoration of cultural identity. Through the Journey Together, we will better support families and their children, as well as the important work that needs to be done as part of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action." — Henry Wall, Chief Administrative Officer, Kenora District Services Board |