Emergency Child Care Reopens Across the GTA

The YMCA of Greater Toronto is the largest provider of not-for-profit licensed child care in Ontario, so I pay attention to news about our sector. This week, I’m pleased to see early childhood educators being recognized in media and on social media for the critical role they play in our communities. It’s something we’ve long known at the Y – ever since our charity started offering licensed child care more than 50 years ago. These dedicated professionals not only help children shine, but make it possible for their parents to pursue careers and reach their own potential.

The pandemic has simply continued to shine a light on just how important the people in this profession are. The parents who need care for their children include front-line and essential workers – health care providers, retirement home support workers and firefighters among the many people who make daily life in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) possible. I extend my ongoing gratitude to our 3,000 child care team members. They not only continue to provide child care to registered families, but today reopened emergency child care at almost 50 locations across the GTA.

Their continuing dedication makes me optimistic about our collective future. If you know an early childhood educator, and haven’t already, please join the chorus of people thanking them for all they do. Even if you’re not a parent, what they do each day has benefits for our whole community. A small kindness will go a long way to helping us all get through this Omicron wave.