Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of Construction
Children helped break the ground at the soon-to-be-built Little Harbour Métis Child Care Centre in Penetanguishene on June 24, 2026. The event, hosted by the County of Simcoe, signals the start of construction for a facility designed to provide culturally appropriate child care for Métis families in the region.
The centre, which will be located on Little Harbour Road, aims to serve up to 88 children and incorporate Métis language, culture, and traditions into its programming. According to the County of Simcoe, the project is part of a broader effort to address the shortage of Indigenous-focused child care spaces in Ontario.
Community Partnerships and Funding
The Little Harbour Métis Child Care Centre is a collaboration between the County of Simcoe, the Métis Nation of Ontario, and the Ontario government. Funding for the $5.2 million project comes from the Canada-Ontario Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, which prioritizes Indigenous-led initiatives. The centre is expected to create 15 full-time jobs once operational.
“This centre will be a place where Métis children can learn and grow in an environment that reflects their heritage,” said a spokesperson for the Métis Nation of Ontario. “It’s a vital step toward reconciliation and supporting families in our community.”
Timeline and Impact
Construction is scheduled to be completed by early 2027, with the centre opening later that year. The facility will include six classrooms, a multi-purpose room, and an outdoor play area designed with natural materials. The County of Simcoe noted that the centre will also offer before- and after-school care for school-aged children.
Local leaders emphasized the importance of the project for Penetanguishene, which has a significant Métis population. “This child care centre addresses a critical need and ensures that our youngest citizens have access to quality, culturally relevant early learning,” said Penetanguishene Mayor Doug Leroux.
