Parent Resources EarlyON Child and Family Centre

Mission Statement

Parent Resources EarlyON Child and Family Centre exists to promote healthy child development, improve child and family well-being, and enhance community connectedness and belonging for children, parents, and caregivers in East Toronto. We create safe and welcoming spaces that offer children, parents, and caregivers supportive conditions and tangible resources to reduce isolation and encourage growth, learning, and long-term success. Offering free services to all families, we provide opportunities for children from birth to 6 years of age to participate in play and inquiry–based programs, and support parents and caregivers in their roles through counseling, workshops, and outreach.

Our Objectives

• Improve the parenting and coping abilities of caregivers and parents and promote an overall sense of community.
• Provide parent relief programs, child enrichment tools, and informal counseling to families.
• Provide a safe, supportive community resource for parents, caregivers, and their young children to socialize, play, and learn.
• Improve self-esteem of parents and children.
• Promote understanding of child development and encourage sharing of best practices.
• Nurture and strengthen the well-being of families as a whole.
• Increase awareness of and ability to use community resources through information distribution and referrals.
• Provide a space for parents to connect.

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Testimonials

"Within a month I could see my son’s social skills and communication skills improve. The activities are well organized, and there are really nice people running this place." - Annie, Leslieville

History of Parent Resources EarlyON CFC

Parent Resources EarlyON CFC Child and Family Centre has supported East Toronto families since May 1977, when it opened in Regent Park to address the need for early childhood education, parenting support, and community connection. The Centre’s mission was, and still is, to promote healthy child development, improve family well-being, and foster strong community ties through free play-based learning and resources for caregivers.

In 1996, the Centre relocated to the basement of the United Church at 1117 Gerrard Street East, expanding its services to include workshops, informal counselling, and outreach. The new space helped further the Centre’s goal of reducing isolation, improving self-esteem, and providing a safe environment where children and families could thrive. Over two decades, it became a vital support system, offering parents tools to nurture their children’s development.

In 2001 Parent Resources EarlyON CFC expanded its satellite services to the Regent Park neighbourhood; then, to St. Lawrence North Market in 2005. Because of the demolishment of the North Market, the satellite site moved to its present place at 173A Front Street in 2010.

In 2018, when the Main Site on Gerrard’s building was sold to WoodGreen Community Services, Parent Resources EarlyON CFC adapted into a mobile program, continuing to deliver its essential services throughout East Toronto. Even without a permanent home, the Centre remained a key resource for families, providing opportunities for growth, learning, and community engagement.

By 2022, Parent Resources EarlyON CFC returned to its beautifully renovated space at 1117 Gerrard Street East, now part of a senior residence. Today, the Centre continues its longstanding mission of supporting children, parents, and caregivers by offering a welcoming space to connect, play, and learn, ensuring all families in East Toronto have the resources they need to succeed.

Contact Us

Phone: (416) 463-5399

Email: info@prdropin.ca

1117 Gerrard Streat East, Toronto, ON, M4M 1Z9