MP Sonia Sidhu is pleased to share exciting updates on early learning and childcare in Ontario as we approach the end of the year.
Starting in January 2025, Ontario will reduce childcare fees to $22 per day for children under six in Canada-wide Early Learning and Childcare (ELCC) programs. This initiative is expected to save families nearly $300 million, according to provincial estimates. Additionally, a new cost-based funding model for childcare operators will be implemented, with further details to be revealed in the new year.
"Affordable and accessible childcare is essential for the well-being of our families and the development of our children. These new measures will provide significant financial relief to families and ensure that every child in Ontario has the opportunity to thrive. We are committed to working with municipalities and childcare operators to make this vision a reality," said MP Sonia Sidhu.
We acknowledge the concerns raised by for-profit operators regarding the implementation of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Childcare (CWELCC) program. Unlike other provinces, Ontario's unique structure devolves the administration of childcare to municipalities. Provincial funds are distributed to cities, which then allocate the funding to childcare operators. MP Sidhu's team is actively engaging with various municipalities to address these challenges and explore potential solutions.
CWELCC Progress to Date:
• Funding: Ontario has secured $10.2 billion through the CWELCC agreement for the period 2022-2026.
• Affordability: Estimated annual savings per child in Ontario are up to $8,500 in 2024. With the new fee cap starting in January, some families can expect savings of up to $18,000.
• Access: Ontario aims to create 86,000 new childcare spaces by 2026. To date, 28,970 spaces have been created and announced.
• Future Goals: Ontario is committed to achieving an average childcare cost of $10 per day by March 2026 and is on track to meet this target.
Our government remains dedicated to supporting families and ensuring accessible, affordable, and high-quality childcare for all Ontarians.