Work to address growing demand for childcare and reduce waitlists in Northumberland is continuing.
Northumberland County says 50 kids will move from waiting lists to new childcare spaces by this Monday, Jan. 20 – and another 82 kids are set to be placed, following the successful renovation and licensing of three facilities at the end of last year.
The new spaces to be filled by Jan. 20 include 30 slots at Ganaraska Child Care – located at the former Ruth Clarke Activity Centre for Seniors in Port Hope – along with 15 through YMCA Northumberland in Warkworth, and five through the Y at the Northumberland Centre for Individual Studies in Cobourg.
“Childcare providers are working diligently to meet increased demand,” said the county, in its latest update. “A hiring process is underway for (more than) 10 new staff members across these facilities to help ensure the remaining 82 spaces open as soon as possible.”
The county’s Early Years services manager Lesley Patterson noted that progress wouldn’t be possible without the strong collaboration of local partners.
“We thank our two childcare providers for their dedication and support in managing services at these new facilities. The Municipality of Port Hope has also prioritized this initiative, playing an essential role by making municipal facility space available to expedite this expansion.
“Additionally, we would like to recognize our construction partners for completing the renovations required to make these spaces available to the community.”
As previously reported, these spaces are said to be part of a broader expansion in partnership with the governments of Canada and Ontario and local municipalities and community organizations.
“Through this expansion, the county plans to provide a total of 404 new high-quality, affordable, and accessible early learning and childcare services to families in Northumberland by the end of 2026,” explained county staff.
And it’s not just about meeting current needs – it’s also about ensuring future generations of kids have access to the best start in life through high-quality, inclusive, early childhood education, added Patterson.
According to the county, the expansion is made possible in part to a nearly $1.7-million investment from upper-level governments, helping with construction, equipment and supply costs for facility upgrades and retrofits to create the extra spaces.
Warden Brian Ostrander called the investment from provincial and federal partners instrumental in helping to meet growing need.
The county continues to encourage families in need of childcare to get their names on waitlists for any of the facilities in their area, as this increases the chances of securing a placement.
People interested in a career in the early years sector can learn more – and view local job opportunities – online.
More information related to expansion efforts is also accessible via the county’s online performance dashboard.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
