Mr. Speaker, sadly, over a million children live in poverty in Canada.
Better Beginnings, Better Futures is one of the most ambitious research projects on the long-term impacts of early childhood development programming ever initiated in Canada.
Its purpose is to prevent young children in low-income, high-risk neighbourhoods from experiencing poor developmental outcomes which then require expensive education, health and social services. The Better Beginnings, Better Futures model has been implemented in several communities in Ontario since 1991.
This program has given beneficial effects to the children who have grown up with it, including a reduction of behavioural and emotional problems, and a promotion of positive development.
I would like to congratulate Highfield Junior School, its excellent teachers, caring parents, and community for terrific programs that will give our children important opportunities to enjoy a healthy and happy life.