The number of child cares spaces in Chatham will see a boost following a $2.1 million funding announcement by MPP Rick Nicholls on behalf of the Ontario Ministry of Education.
The Lambton-Kent District School Board has been given the green light to tender a child care addition to Indian Creek Road Public School in Chatham. A statement from the school board said the $2.1 million investment will support 49 new child care spaces and three new child care rooms at the school.
“Our financing of this child care addition in Chatham further demonstrates our government’s historic investment in Ontario’s schools and child care, as well as our overall commitment to supporting our students and families,” said Education Minister Stephen Lecce.
The funding is from a $1 billion capital investment program by the Ford government to create 30,000 new child care spaces at schools over the next five years.
“We greatly appreciate the investment of the Government of Ontario to support local families through a new child care addition at Indian Creek Road Public School,” said LKDSB Chair Jane Bryce. “The Lambton Kent District School Board and community partners will continue to work together to support families with their child care needs and facilitate a successful transition to school.”
YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, in partnership with the public school board, operates a before-and-after school program at Indian Creek Road Public School. The two will work together to discuss future plans for the site.
“The opening of additional licensed child care spaces aligns with the Ministry of Education’s vision of accessibility, affordability, inclusivity, and quality programming for children and families. This is fantastic news for Chatham-Kent as we value our children and understand the importance of early brain development,” said Kelly Emery, director of child care and early years division with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
Details regarding construction and timelines still need to be finalized between the LKDSB and the Ministry of Education.