Our annual report provides an opportunity for us reflect on the year in question. This year, again, was like no other. If we’ve learned anything over the past twelve months, it is that a strong and relevant Mission, Vision and set of Guiding Principles and the right people are essential to guide us in the important work that is the mandate of Today’s Family.
Throughout 2021, as doors closed because of the changing COVID restrictions and growing labour shortages, we are proud that ours remained open. In adverse times, our people showed great strength and perseverance to continue to do their best work for children and families in over 70 of our neighbourhoods. Among many milestones, our staff and providers led the provision of emergency child care, increasing the number of licensed child care spaces in our neighbourhoods to meet the needs of essential workers and families. Our ability to rise to the challenge of exceptional circumstances is a testament to the perseverance and dedication of everyone at the organization.
At Today’s Family, we recognize that we didn’t do this alone. They say one of the greatest gifts you can give is your time. Our committed Board of Directors, our talented and caring licensed home child care providers, volunteers, staff, generous community members and partners gave just that – their unwavering time, as they listened to and acted upon the needs of Today’s Family. Further, with the consistent support and guidance from our municipal and provincial partners, we’ve been able to increase opportunities for families in our three municipalities.
Through the changing restrictions to in-person programs, we offered virtual EarlyON programs, and facilitated another memorable season of summer camp; we didn’t lose sight of what was most important – how children learn best. The pandemic continuously disrupted children’s learning and development. Children had to navigate shifting rules for school and child care; they had to adapt to online learning and were forced to manage not interacting with teachers or peers. With tireless energy and creativity, we continued to create safe and healthy opportunities for children to learn and play with belonging, well-being, engagement, and expression – the foundations of how children learn best. No matter the obstacle, we were accountable for the children in our care.
Lastly, we continue to look ahead toward the future. We recognize that the future may hold unique challenges. But, in collaborating with our local, provincial, and national partners, we continue to be strong advocates for a bright future of our children. We believe that families need affordable access to regulated child care, that educators deserve competitive pay and work, and that every child deserves to grow up in a caring and inclusive world. We know that this is also imperative to economic recovery. This past year, we gained the confidence to be a more visible and more innovative in advocating for a National Child Care Strategy that has the potential to transform the future of the early years in Canada. Although great progress has been made, there is still a lot of work to be done to ensure that no family gets left behind.
We’ve learned a lot about who we are, who we serve and where we’re going. We look forward to the year ahead, as we continue to work together to do what’s best for children and families.
Nancy Korstanje
Chair of Board of Directors
Marni Flaherty
Chief Executive Officer
This message is an excerpt from our 2021 Annual Report, Quilts of Care. You can read the entire report by visiting our new Neighbourhoods Mini Site by clicking here. You can also download a PDF version of the report by clicking here.
