LITTLE CURRENT—Mnidoo Mnising Sharing and Learning Centre for All (MMSLC) was presented with a Champion for Children Award from ‘Our Future Our Children.’ The award recognizes organizations for “the work they do that is making a difference in the lives of children.”
Lynne Ethier, manager of Fundraising and Community Engagement with Our Children Our Future (formerly known as Brighter Futures), dropped into the MMSLC offices in the NEMI Municipal Building in Little Current to present the award.
“Every year Our Children Our Future collects nominations for champions for children throughout our community and we select three champions that really stand out and make a difference in the lives of children and families in our community. MMSLC was chosen today for their continuous work over the years with our family resource workers, children and families that attend. The staff goes up and beyond every time to make sure everyone is happy and taken care of and learning all there is to learn about their teachings.”
“MMSLC is a satellite partnership with Kenjgewin Teg; we are working with the earlier sector and are going into our sixth year,” said Melanie Francis, MMSLC Early Years Coordinator. “It is a partnership with Kenjgewin Teg and Manitoulin Sudbury District Services Board.”
Ms. Francis explained MMSLC catchment area runs from Chapleau, Noelville, Manitoulin and St. Charles. “We have about 14-16 sites we work with—we are all outreach,” she said. “We provide foundation of truth and reconciliation ‘Journey Together’ providing Indigenous content with professional development to Early On providers, ECEs. We do special events, workshops for families.” Although the focus is on Indigenous content, the program is not just for Indigenous families. “It is for everybody,” said Ms. Francis, “that is why our name includes ‘for all.’”
During the open house, Islanders were invited to drop in for some light snacks and refreshments, and take the opportunity to learn more about MMSLC programs and services.
Those who were unable to drop in to the open house are encouraged to reach out to a MMSLC staff member for more information. Ms. Francis can be reached at melaniefrancis@kenjgewinteg.ca.
