Raising a family in Hawkesbury

Why choose Canada?

According to U.S. News, Canada is one of the best countries to raise a family, with a score of 95%! “Canada: The second-largest country after Russia, with a population of over 37 million, is known for its highly diverse demography. Canada is known for its freedom and equality standards. With per capita GDP of $49,000, Canadians are providing excellent infrastructure for kids’ upbringing. When it comes to legality, the country has one of the most stringent child protection laws in place.” (Sophie Ireland, February 2021)

Why choose Hawkesbury?

Hawkesbury is one of the best situated towns in Eastern Ontario, only an hour’s drive from Ottawa and from Montreal. Many families have decided to settle here. It offers numerous work opportunities, daily activities and services.

To learn more about the town, read our blog post Welcome to Hawkesbury or browse the website VivreaHawkesbury.ca.

Do you have young children?

If you have children under the age of five, you may need daycare. You will find several in the area, both private and public. After you have chosen your preferred type of child care, you will need to do a little research to find local daycares and make sure they have availability before you register your child.

Children aged three or older, whose parents are Francophone, may also be enrolled in a French, English or bilingual school. French schools, both public and Catholic, are available in the Town of Hawkesbury. English schools are also available in the nearby village. Here is the list:

French elementary

• École élémentaire publique Nouvel-Horizon
• École élémentaire catholique Paul VI

English elementary

• Jude Catholic School
• Pleasant Corners Public School(PCPS)

French high school

• École secondaire catholique régionale de Hawkesbury (ESCRH)
• École secondaire publique Le Sommet

English high school

• Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute(VCI)

All of these elementary schools offer daycare services that allow you to drop off and pick up your child outside of school hours. For more information, please contact the school directly. If your child has special needs, don’t hesitate to let the school know. Each school offers special services.

Is health important to you?

The health care system is important to Canadians. Outside the country, many people have little or no access to health services. Canadians are extremely grateful for this ease of access. It is in fact one of the most common reasons for immigrating to this country.

In Hawkesbury itself, we have one of the best hospitals in Canada. The Hawkesbury and District General Hospital (HGH) can meet the medical needs of all members of the family.

Looking for activities to do with your family?

The Town of Hawkesbury, the United Counties of Prescott and Russell and the territory within a 100-kilometre radius are full of opportunities to have fun. Some are year-round, others are seasonal, and some are annual. When looking for something to do right here in Hawkesbury, you can check out the town’s website or its Facebook page. To find something outside the city, the following sites may be helpful:

• Tripadvisor
• Airbnb experiences
• Montreal: MTL
• Ottawa: To do Canada
• Longer trips: Authentik Canada

For more useful information for your family, we invite you to consult our Live section.

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