Mr. Speaker, 16 years ago, four moms who wanted more for their developmentally disabled adult children established Crossing All Bridges Learning Centre in Brantford. From humble beginnings to serving over 70 individuals and their families, Crossing All Bridges provides lifelong education, meaning and social connection.
A social enterprise, Shredding Barriers, was started three years ago, providing employment to over 16 participants and empowering them with skills to move into the mainstream workforce. Tears of joy flowed when they received their first paycheques.
Having operated out of rented facilities, Crossing All Bridges has embarked on a campaign to have a home of its own. There is a wish list and a wait-list, and the new premises will serve to help the centre grow and achieve its goals.
I thank the founding moms for their vision: Nancy Tew Seberras, Debbie Brown, Nancy Gowing and Carol Cain.