Giggles, painted faces, hotdogs, and cake were the order of the day Saturday at the grand opening of the “Best Start” hub in Stratton.
About two dozen area residents, young and old, were on hand to celebrate with co-ordinator Marni McDonald and her assistant, Laurie Anderson.
Leanne Mineault, director of Early Years of Kenora, also was on hand.
The “Best Start” hub, located in the former separate school (a building which also houses the seniors’ centre), was a beehive of activity all day.
It brings together the former Stratton Family Resource Centre and Early Years education programs.
“We service all area families and some days we will have up to 25 kids here,” noted McDonald as she outlined the hub’s ambitious program.
McDonald and Anderson do most of the staffing at the hub, but are backed up by a group of casual assistants, as well.
The May calendar lists activities at the hub for 21 separate days, including activities from handwriting without tears, sneakers and strollers, and respite care.
They even are taking in the Stratton family fish derby.
The “Best Start” hub in Stratton is one of 14 such centres—now open or planned—for the Kenora and Rainy River districts.
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