We, the parents and caregivers of children enrolled at North 44 Academy ("North 44"), alongside alumni and supporters, urge the Jesuits of Canada to extend North 44's tenancy at the Ignatius Jesuit Centre until August 31, 2025. The proposed early termination of North 44's lease would cause significant disruption for our children and families, creating emotional, social, and financial challenges during a critical time.

The planned displacement of our children by the end of June 2025 would disrupt the social ties they have created, deprive them of the opportunity to learn from the land during its most inspiring season and introduce an additional transition point at a time when they are already preparing for important milestones, such as starting Kindergarten in September 2025.

In addition to the emotional and developmental impact, the proposed timeline would create significant logistical and financial challenges for our families. Finding a suitable alternative location for an outdoor program at this late stage is nearly impossible, as most local spaces for summer 2025 have already been booked. Alternate licensed childcare is inaccessible; thousands of children in the County of Wellington remain on waitlists ahead of the children at North 44. 

Registration for traditional summer programming is underway with most programs already full. Many of our children under the age of four are not eligible for traditional summer camps anyways. Many families would likely not be able to find suitable care at all, leading to lost wages and financial strain. Even if the children that are eligible for camps are able to find spaces, collectively, our families could face an additional $30,000 in childcare costs—an unexpected financial burden that could impact the well-being of our community. Many families also rely on subsidized childcare through the Canada-Wide Early Learning & Child Care program (CEWELCC), which would no longer be available should our children be forced to leave.

We understand the importance of the Orchard Park redevelopment project and appreciate Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to provide affordable housing to the community. However, we respectfully ask that you consider the deep impact this decision will have on the 46 children and their families who rely on North 44’s unique program. An extension until August 31, 2025, would allow our children to complete their year in the nurturing environment they know and love, while also providing our families with the stability they need during this time of transition.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

The Parents, Caregivers, Alumni and Supporters of North 44 Academy