The early years of a child's life are critical to healthy brain development and to their physical, social, emotional and cognitive growth and progression. Research has shown that a child's future academic success culminates in a process that begins with experiences in infancy through the preschool years. It is imperative that children be given optimal chances to develop in high quality environments with skilled and loving caregivers.

In response to a community needs assessment in 1998, the Sisters of Charity Foundation of Canton identified a need for available, good quality, trustworthy child care in Stark County Ohio. The Foundation's Quality Child Care Initiative, a multi-part strategy, was developed and the Early Childhood Resource Center (ECRC) was established in 2000, as an integral part of the Initiative. As a ministry of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine, the ECRC has operational oversight by the CSA Ministries Corporation, a non-profit charitable corporation.

In the spirit of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine, the mission of the Early Childhood Resource Center is to promote the healthy development of young children by improving the quality of their early education and care through comprehensive programming, resources, and support services for families and early childhood professionals to be leaders and advocates at the state level, and to promote the professionalism of the early childhood field.

In 2009, the ECRC launched a Capital Campaign to support the purchase and renovation of a new facility.  Thanks to the generous support of local foundations and community members, the ECRC raised over $900,000 to support this endeavor.  On February 22nd, the NEW ECRC will open to the public offering more programs, a larger facility and many more resources.  Construction began in Fall 2010 and will be complete on February 7th.  Below you will find photos of our new building as it has undergone construction. 

To help us succeed in our mission, consider making a donation today. Contact Us for more information.