Intergenerational Programming
Early Learning and Care Centre
Work Continues to Establish the Early Learning and Care Centre at Perley Health
Perley Health is excited to announce significant progress in establishing its innovative Early Learning and Care Centre at Perley Health, a collaboration with Andrew Fleck Children's Services. A major milestone was achieved with the City of Ottawa's approval of 49 childcare spaces under the Ontario Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. This childcare centre, designed to accommodate children from infancy through kindergarten, will be conveniently located on the first floor of the Perley Centre, directly across from the pharmacy.

A cornerstone of this initiative is the unique intergenerational programming, which will intentionally create opportunities for meaningful interactions and relationship-building between the children and the seniors residing at Perley Health. To facilitate this enriching environment, renovations and a building expansion are required. The design phase is nearing completion, and the building permit application has been submitted to the City of Ottawa.
Recognizing the needs of its dedicated team, Perley Health is pleased to offer its staff priority access to the childcare services at a rate of $10 per day, made possible through the Canada-Wide Early Learning & Child Care (CWELCC) System. The anticipated opening of the centre is in mid-2026, potentially coinciding with Perley's 30th anniversary celebrations in June. Registration for children will be managed through the City of Ottawa's centralized waiting list, with details to be released closer to the commencement of construction.
To ensure the childcare centre effectively serves the Perley Health community, a needs assessment survey is now underway to gather valuable input on childcare requirements. The feedback from this survey is playing a crucial role in shaping the centre's offerings and meet the needs of our community. For those seeking further information, a dedicated webpage has been launched, featuring frequently asked questions (FAQs) to address common inquiries.

Furthermore, Perley Health invites our community to an Open House on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. This event provides an opportunity to visit the future site of the Early Learning and Care Centre on the first floor of the Perley Centre. Attendees can meet representatives from Andrew Fleck Children's Services and Perley Health leadership, including Nicole Latremouille, Parent Navigator, Andrew Fleck Children's Services; Katrin Spencer, Director, Strategy, Partnerships and Growth, Perley Health; and Delphine Hasle, Executive Director & Chief Development Officer, Perley Health Foundation. This is a chance to learn more about the intergenerational program and its impact, supported by the Bridging Generations Fundraising Campaign, while enjoying refreshments and snacks.
The Bridging Generations campaign is actively raising $2 million to enhance the intergenerational program, creating dedicated spaces that foster connections through activities like crafting, storytelling, and gardening. By strengthening these bonds, Perley Health aims to enrich lives and build a more inclusive community. Stay connected for further updates and visit the new webpage.
Early Learning and Care Centre Updates - Click Here
Intergenerational Playgroups
Witness the enchantment of intergenerational connections in our weekly playgroups.
- Sessions: Every Friday morning, 10 seniors engage with 10 children, rangning from newborns to six years of age.
- Learning Hub: Lessons learned from these vibrant sessions actively influence program and space development.
- Get involved: For families with children interested in participating, email EarlyOnOttawasouth@afchildrensservices.ca and for Senior Living tenants or residents interested in participating, please email Casandra Boushey at cboushey@perleyhealth.ca.
Pilot Program: Intergenerational Music Program
Immerse yourself in the harmonious union of seniors and youth through the magic of music.
- Weekly Rhythm: Seniors and youth take turns leading one-hour music sessions, fostering unique connections.
- Building Bonds: Consistent groups for 6-week blocks, with the potential to become a cherished regular program pending sustainable funding.
*This successful pilot was completed in the Fall of 2023. Perley Health is hopeful for it's return as an ongoing program pending funding approval.
Caring for Others Program
An exceptional collaboration between Immaculata High School and Perley Health.
- Grade 10 Engagement: Students earn credits while making a meaningful impact on seniors and young children.
- Wednesday Activities: Dedicated time for one-on-one interactions, therapeutic recreation activities and various community-focused endeavours.
Get involved: Contact Susan Kehoe, Immaculata High School, 613.237.2001
Youth Volunteering
Explore open opportunities for volunteers aged 13 and above, contributing to our vibrant community.
- Summer Engagement: Join our youth program in July and August for a fulfilling and educational experience.
- Family Involvement: Parents are encouraged to register and volunteer alongside their children.
- Educational Opportunities: Co-op placements available for both high school and university students.
Get involved: Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer@perleyhealth.ca
Take our Kids to Work Day
Explore open opportunities for volunteers aged 13 and above, contributing to our vibrant community.
- Full day of activities for Grade 9 students who are family members of Perley Health employees.
- First Wednesday of November.
Get involved: Contact your child's school and Volunteer Services at volunteer@perleyhealth.ca