Travel for Tots puts out an SOS

Jeff Green | Apr 28, 2011

The popular Travel for Tots fundraiser that is put on each year by Northern Frontenac Community Services (NFCS) has changed its focus this year.

The fundraiser has always raised money for the transportation program that helps children from around the region access services that NCFS provides at the Child Centre in Sharbot Lake.

But last fall the Licensed Day Care program began to run into financial problems of its own after 20 years of success delivering licensed childcare to local youngsters.

“This year, proceeds from the fundraiser will go directly to the NFCS Licensed Day Care program, which, over the past year, has undergone significant operational changes in response to declining enrolment. The lower numbers have several contributors: reduced subsidizes, the introduction of full-day kindergarten into Ontario schools, the recent economic downturn, and the normal challenges associated with operating in a rural environment,” said NFCS Executive Director Don Amos.

“The Day Care is integral to the ongoing viability of the surrounding communities, and our board of directors is exploring all options to ensure its continued success. Although unsteady enrolment in the fee-for-service program greatly impacts their bottom line, we do not want to increase fees, as it could cause even more children to leave licensed care,” he added, “and the funds we raise will help us keep those fees down.

On Saturday May 7, NFCS will be hosting “S.O.S. Save our Sharbot Lake Day Care,” a silent auction and dance, 7 pm at the Royal Kingston Curling Club, 130 Days Road.

“Once again we have some fantastic items available for the silent auction,” said event organiser Jan MacPherson. “It’s going to be a fun night.”

A limited number of tickets are available at $20 per person. To purchase tickets or make a donation, members of the public can call the Child Centre at 613-279-2244.

NFCS delivers a wide array of programs and services for children, youth, adults and seniors. It operates an Ontario Early Years Centre for children and families and it has a licensed childcare centre for infants, toddlers, pre-schoolers and school aged children. At the Adult Services building there are programs and services for seniors, family and individual counselling, and support for at risk adults. The organization also operates Rural Routes Transportation services to assist families and individuals who require support with transportation needs.