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Niagara’s EarlyON Centres recognized for innovation while delivering strong results for families
May 21, 2026
2025 was a remarkable year for EarlyON Child and Family Centres across Niagara, with families taking full advantage of programs designed to support children’s early learning, development and social connections. This strong local impact has also been recognized at the provincial level.
Niagara Region’s work to reimagine EarlyON as an integrated community hub model recently received the 2026 Local Municipal Champion Award from the Ontario Municipal Social Services Association. Presented to Niagara Region’s Children’s Services, the award recognizes teams across Ontario that are doing an excellent job of working together and with community partners to better connect services for residents.
Niagara’s approach has focused on making EarlyON Centres more than places for early learning, by developing community hubs as an entry point where families can be referred to other community supports, such as housing, mental health and family services. Through coordinated access, outreach and partnerships, EarlyON is developing into a place that helps reduce barriers and makes it easier for families to connect to support.
This recognition comes alongside a year of strong engagement from families at EarlyON Centres across the region. Niagara’s 26 EarlyON Centres, located across 11 municipalities, welcomed 14,777 children for a total of 82,649 visits and engaged 13,145 parents and caregivers in programs and services. These numbers highlight the important role EarlyON plays in supporting families at every stage of early childhood.
“This past year continues to demonstrate just how important EarlyON is for families in Niagara,” said Satinder Klair, Director of Children’s Services at Niagara Region. “The Centres are places where children can explore, caregivers can connect and community partners can come together to support families. Being recognized at the provincial level shows that the work happening here in Niagara is making a real difference.”
In 2025, several EarlyON locations transitioned into new community hubs, improving accessibility, inclusion and service delivery for families across the region. As the service system manager, Niagara Region worked closely with local providers to guide these changes, ensuring programs are coordinated, spaces are welcoming and barrier-free, and families can easily find the support they need.
“We often hear from families about the difference EarlyON makes,” said Jennifer Butera, Manager, Children’s Services Community Strategy and Partnerships. “This award reflects the dedication of our staff and partners, and the strength of working together. It encourages us to keep improving and adapting, so we can meet the needs of children and caregivers across Niagara.”
With continued growth, innovation and collaboration, EarlyON Child and Family Centres are helping to make Niagara a place where every child and family can thrive, while also being recognized as a leading example across Ontario.
Media contact
Janet Rose
Senior Communications Specialist
Niagara Region
289-668-3629
janet.rose@niagararegion.ca
