The Ontario government is launching a new $20-million safety fund aimed at preventing tragedies like the one that claimed the life of toddler Liam Riazati earlier this fall.
The announcement follows a devastating incident in September, when an SUV crashed into a daycare centre in Richmond Hill, killing the young child and injuring six other children and three adults.
Education Minister Paul Calandra says the new initiative, named the Liam Riazati Memorial Fund, will open for applications early next year.
The fund is designed to help child-care centres install protective infrastructure—such as concrete barriers—particularly at facilities located near busy parking lots or roadways.
Many community-based centres operate out of plazas, churches, and mixed-use buildings, where vehicles often come into close proximity with outdoor play areas and entrances.
Calandra says the funding marks the beginning of a broader review of long-term safety requirements for child-care environments across the province.
He also emphasized that if more support is needed beyond the initial $20 million, the government is prepared to expand the program.
