Three new facilities offering activities and services for children and parents have officially opened in Prescott-Russell.
On Saturday, April 27, the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) held the official opening for the three EarlyON Child and Family Centres located in Casselman, Rockland, and Hawkesbury. The grand opening was held at the Casselman centre.
The EarlyON Centres act as true community hubs, enabling the UCPR Ontario Works program and Housing Services as well as complementary community services to be offered under the same roof.
“The UCPR EarlyON Child and Family Centres are crucial for our population. They give local families access to resources that ensure the well-being, education, and development of their children. Our services and programs focus on social, emotional, physical, creative, and cognitive development in a holistic way, enabling children to learn continuously,” explained UCPR Director of Social Services Sylvie Millette.
In 2020, the UCPR opened their first EarlyON Centre in Rockland. Unfortunately, it had to be closed again just two months later due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As soon as the health restrictions were lifted, the UCPR was not only able to reopen the Rockland Centre but also to launch new locations in both Hawkesbury and Casselman.
“Although the Centres have been open to the public for some time, we felt it was important to properly inaugurate these wonderful spaces for families. When we talk about the long-term vision of health and education in the UCPR, we are especially thinking about making these services available for children from their earliest age. It is essential to guide them by giving them a good start and opportunities for healthy development. These youngsters will become the adults of Prescott and Russell and residents who will contribute to our society,” said Casselman Mayor Geneviève Lajoie.
