Hastings County and Loyalist College are working together to address the shortage of Early Childhood Educators in the region.
A $150,000 investment will be provided to create the Early Childhood Educator Scholarship to support current and future students enrolled in the ECE program at Loyalist.
The one-time federally-funded investment will provide financial assistance to eligible students who obtain employment at a licensed childcare program within Hastings County after graduation.
Currently there are 29 licensed childcare service providers with 68 locations in Hastings County, most with sizable waitlists.
Hastings County says council recognizes that access to affordable, high–quality care is not only in the best interest of children, but is also essential for parents and caregivers to be able to work or attend school.
Warden Bob Mullin says, “Sustaining the existing Early Years and Child Care workforce while providing opportunities for expansion is critical to the system. Early Childhood Educators play a critical role in the growth
and development of our children. Providing opportunities for families to participate in the workforce and help children grow and thrive in supportive and inclusive environments is critical.”
