Toronto's Vital Signs® Issue Area
Learning

Why it matters “Education is broader than numeracy and literacy - it is about acquiring a set of tools that allow us to bounce back from crisis. Without skills, the cycles of poverty and isolation cannot be overcome." - Shelina Karmali, Executive Director Promoting Education and Community Health (PEACH)

• The high-school drop-out rate in the Region has dropped by 92% since 1990.
• The 2010 post-secondary completion rate in the Toronto Region is 56.1% higher than in 1990.
• The City has licensed child care spots for only 1 in 5 Toronto children, and the need is growing. Over 20,000 children were waiting for a childcare subsidy in August 2011.

Featured solutions from our Community Knowledge Centre
Our Community Knowledge Centre features solutions to the issues identified in Toronto's Vital Signs. Organizations who have received a grant from our Vital Toronto Fund are identified.

		Promoting Education and Community Health (PEACH) PEACH provides transformative, youth-centred, social and educational programs that model what is possible for youth and their families within the Jane and Finch community. Vital Toronto Fund award recipient 2011 Learn more about PEACH »
		Frontier College Frontier College is a national literacy organization that believes that literacy is a right. They work with volunteers and community partners to give people the skills and confidence they need to reach their potential and contribute to society. Vital Toronto Fund award recipient 2006 Learn more about Frontier College »
		Davenport Perth Neighbourhood & Community Health Centre (DPNCHC) DPNCHC supports people in its neighbourhood, especially those who face economic and/or social barriers, to enrich their lives and the life of their community. Their Ready for School Connects program recognizes and responds to the unique challenges that newcomer children and families face with regard to school participation. Vital Toronto Fund award recipient 2008 Learn more about DPNCHC »