The provincial government announced plans on Monday to create seven family resource centres in communities across Saskatchewan.
The new centres will be located in the Battlefords, Meadow Lake, Moose Jaw, Nipawin, Prince Albert, and Saskatoon, along with one in the north.
Officials said they will provide a place where families can access reliable information, services and supports to help guardians develop positive parenting traits. It’s also hoped young children will have positive developmental experiences at the centres, leading to improved child outcomes in the community.
“Over the past year, our three existing sites have had nearly 50,000 visits,” Education Minister Gordon Wyant said in a press release.
“The benefits of this model can be seen today, and I have no doubt the additional centres will have a lasting impact on all members within their communities.”
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New Early Years Family Resource Centres will be developed through community partnerships led by KidsFirst, who will be responsible for finding the space, hiring staff and developing programming.
The ministry said the new centres are expected to open in fall 2019.
Funding of $1.5 million is being provided through the Canada-Saskatchewan Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.