The Aboriginal Head Start Program is a federal program aimed at supporting early childhood development for young families.

Leaders from Star Blanket Cree Nation were on hand Tuesday morning to celebrate the grand opening of their own building devoted entirely to fostering the program in their community.

“We heard and are responding to our people’s needs,” said Star Blanket Chief Michael Starr in a media release. “This facility will greatly help the young people and families in our community become stronger and more vibrant.”

The Aboriginal Head Start Program is geared toward education, culture and language, health, nutrition, social support, support for young families and family involvement.

The program also encourages the hosting community to play an integral role in the delivery of the programs and services. Leaders from Star Blanket hope the new building will be a catalyst in that effort.

Star Blanket Cree Nation is located about 150 kilometres northeast of Regina.

(PHOTO: Tuesday morning’s grand opening. Photo courtesy of File Hills Tribal Council, Twitter.)