George Jeffrey Children's Centre

The George Jeffrey Children's Centre is a non-profit charitable organization with strong roots in Northwestern Ontario, particularly in Thunder Bay. It was founded in 1948 by the Kiwanis Club and the Lakehead Cerebral Palsy Parents' Council, initially focusing on serving preschool children with disabilities through the J.B. Larway School.

History

In the early years, the Centre served children with disabilities. Over time, it has grown and expanded its services. In 1961, it was incorporated as the Thunder Bay Crippled Children Centre. By June 1969, the Northwestern Ontario Crippled Children’s Centre had opened its new facilities. An 18-bed residence was added in 1978, although it is now closed. The Centre was renamed the George Jeffrey Children's Treatment Centre in 1983 in honor of George Jeffrey, a dedicated former Chairman and Director. More recently, the name has been simplified to George Jeffrey Children's Centre to better reflect its mission.

Services

Today, the George Jeffrey Children's Centre provides health services to infants, children, and adolescents from birth to 19 years, or up to 21 if attending high school. These services address communication, developmental, and physical needs. The Centre offers various specialized programs and continues to evolve to meet the changing requirements of the children it serves.

Community and Partnerships

The Centre operates on traditional Fort William First Nation territory and acknowledges the special connection to this land and the community's contributions. It remains committed to reconciliation through continuous learning and engagement.

Support

The George Jeffrey Children's Centre receives financial support from the George Jeffrey Children's Foundation, a registered charity dedicated to raising funds to support the Centre's mission. The Foundation's efforts are crucial in helping children reach their full potential by providing resources for the Centre's wide range of programs.

Impact

With a history spanning over 60 years, the George Jeffrey Children's Centre plays a vital role in Northwestern Ontario, serving not only Thunder Bay but also broader regional needs. Its commitment to serving children of all abilities makes it a key part of the community's healthcare infrastructure.