The footprint of Sarnia's YMCA on Finch Drive is getting bigger.
The Jerry McCaw Family Centre received provincial funding from the County of Lambton to renovate and expand its childcare centre.
The city issued a building permit for $1.1 million in December.
The southwest Y's Children's Educational Services Vice President Jo-elle Rinker said work is already underway.
"There's an actual build of a new classroom, a 24-space preschool room, and then we're renovating inside to add some additional infant spaces, we're going to add ten new infant spaces, and then also upgrade and expand the kitchen to support the additional children in the centre," said Rinker.
She said the community has needed more licenced childcare spaces to serve younger children.
"We’re grateful for the support of the province, the Government of Canada, and the County of Lambton to help us address a growing need for licenced childcare in this area."
The funding was made available through the Canada-Ontario Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.
Warden Kevin Marriott said the County of Lambton acts as the Consolidated Municipal Service Manager for the provincially licenced childcare system.
"The county is delighted to work with the Government of Canada, the ministry of education, and the YMCA to invest in this facility and strengthen the offering of childcare spaces in our community," said Marriott.
It's hoped construction will be completed in the fall of this year.