Region of Durham celebrates official opening of new Edna Thomson Early Learning and Child Care Centre

Whitby, Ontario – The Regional Municipality of Durham, Social Services Department today celebrated the official opening of the Edna Thomson Early Learning and Child Care Centre in its new location. The new site, located in the Knox Christian School building, has more than 30 additional spaces for preschool and toddler-aged children in the Bowmanville area. The centre is fully accessible and boasts an all-natural playground.

“Durham Region is dynamic and continues to grow; more families are calling our communities home,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer. “The increased capacity at the new Edna Thomson will ensure that more children in the Clarington area have access to a high-quality, safe early learning and child care environment. We would like to acknowledge the Government of Canada and Province of Ontario for their contributions. We remain committed to working with our federal and provincial partners to ensure that our youngest residents receive the best care to ensure future success.”

“The new Edna Thomson provides an inclusive and welcoming space to meet the diverse needs of our growing Durham community,” said Regional Councillor Bob Chapman, Chair of Health & Social Services Committee. “All the classrooms are located on one floor; and there are large hallways and open spaces to accommodate persons of varying abilities. It is truly a testament to the dedication of employees from our Social Services and Works departments, who worked together to make this centre a reality.”

Edna Thomson Child Care Centre has a long history in the Bowmanville area. It first opened its doors in November 1976 at 156 Church Street. When the then Mayor and Council of Bowmanville were approached about a name for the centre, they recommended that it be called Edna Thomson, after Lady Edna Thomson, who is the wife of one of Bowmanville’s famous sons, Lord Thomson of Fleet.

“Children’s Services staff and our Edna Thomson families are excited to be settled in our new location,” said Stella Danos-Papaconstantinou, Commissioner of Social Services. “We look forward to welcoming more children into our centre; and continuing to provide the exceptional, compassionate care that the community has come to expect from our early learning and child care centres.”

The Region operates seven early learning and child care centres. For more information, please visit www.durham.ca/ChildrensServices.

– 30 –

For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.