The City of Kelowna has received a multi-million dollar grant to fund the construction of over 270 new child care spaces in the community.
A release says the city was successful in securing three ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund grants totalling $25.1 million to create new spaces in future community, recreation and wellness facilities.
The funds will see 91 spaces in each of the future Glenmore and Mission recreation facilities and the redeveloped Parkinson Recreation Centre.
That includes 36 spaces for toddlers under three years old, 75 spaces for kids aged 30 months to school age and 162 spots for children who are school aged.
A release from the city says The construction of the two activity centres is slated for completion in 2026, with the redevelopment of PRC set to open in 2027.
“We are thrilled to receive funding to officially add childcare into these future facilities, a vital service that is needed to support parents and families in our growing city,” said Mayor Tom Dyas.
"These prime locations, located near residential neighbourhoods, parks and recreational opportunities, provide convenient options that will allow children and families in Kelowna to experience the full benefits of childcare close to their homes.”
The ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund combines provincial investments and funding from the Government of Canada through the Canada-BC Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement 2021-2026.
Jenna Sudds, Canada’s minister of families, children and social development, says the new spaces will allow more parents in Kelowna to join other families in BC who are saving up to $6,600 annually per child.
The announcement of these 273 childcare spaces build on the recent addition of 86 spaces at Kelowna International Airport.
The city plans on operating the future school-aged child care and partnering with a non-profit provider for the full-day childcare.
