Northumberland County has received a provincial award for its innovative Early Years Employment Initiative (EYEI), a program that helps students and Ontario Works clients start careers in the childcare sector.
The Ontario Municipal Social Services Association (OMSSA) presented the 2024 Community Champions Award to the County’s Community & Social Services team at its annual conference on May 13. The award recognises excellence in how municipal human services are delivered and coordinated.
Launched in 2022 with partners like Fleming College, YMCA Northumberland, and Watton Employment Services, the six-week program offers a “ladder of opportunity” by providing skills, certifications, and hands-on experience to participants.
“To date, 50% of participants have found employment in the field or continued their education-an encouraging measure of the program’s success,” the County said.
“This employment initiative has changed my life,” said Hafsa Asif, an EYEI graduate. “It gave me all the tools I needed to begin a career I love.”
Warden Brian Ostrander called the award “a well-deserved recognition of the team’s leadership,” while Lesley Patterson, Manager of Early Years Services, said investing in Early Years professionals helps build stronger communities.
Dwayne Campbell, the County’s Director of Economic Development, added the initiative is helping address growing childcare workforce shortages while supporting local families and economic growth.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)