There’s going to be a new municipally-owned childcare facility at Valleycliffe Elementary School, thanks to over $2-million in funding from the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund.
It will provide 36 full-time spaces, including 12 infant/toddler spaces and 24 group care spots, in a 250 square-metre standalone building next to a park.
This has been accomplished due to a partnership with School District 48 and the Sea to Sky Community Services Society.
“We are so grateful to the province for these funds that will support the expansion of childcare facilities in our community,” said Mayor Karen Elliott in a news release.
“Access to quality, affordable childcare is essential to community health and vitality, early childhood development and a family’s ability to earn an income, especially mothers. We have long advocated for increased childcare spaces, affordability, better wages and local educational opportunities for early childhood educators in Squamish. This initiative represents the efforts of much collaboration and dedication as part of our continued and ongoing work of removing barriers to help all families access quality childcare.”
Her sentiments were echoed by B.C.’s Minister of State for Childcare Katrina Chen.
“We are building a future where childcare is a core service that parents in all parts of B.C. can rely on so they can pursue work, education or other opportunities. The province’s New Spaces Fund is helping ensure there are spaces available to any family that wants it, when and where they need it. It’s great to see the District of Squamish, School District 48, and Sea to Sky Community Services Society coming together to help increase access to childcare for families in the Squamish area,” she said.
The partners involved in bringing this project to life believe this will address a dramatic community need, and will have an impact on the lives of local families.
“We are thrilled that this community partnership can provide access to much-needed affordable and quality childcare spaces for families in Squamish. It is wonderful to see the Ministry of Education and Childcare and our local community partners come together to make this happen,” said Phillip Clarke, the director of instruction: learning services at School District No. 48, in the release.
Construction of the project is expected to begin in Summer 2022. The facility is anticipated to be fully operational by Fall 2023.
