The provincial government is funding the development of new childcare facilities in Fort Frances and Emo.
One-point-two million is going toward a retrofit of former kindergarten classes at Robert Moore School.
Another $2.8-million will be used to construct three new childcare rooms at Donald Young School in Emo.
“The new addition of Donald Young Public School in Emo and the retrofit here at Robert Moore School means families will have greater convenience and more options when thinking about how they manage their family and family time,” says Northern Development and Mines Minister Greg Rickford.
Both sites are being overseen by the Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board. The Rainy River District School Board is overseeing the construction.
School Board chair Raymond Roy says sees the benefits of childcare facilities being located at the schools.
“The benefits of these young learners being under the same roof as older students and often their siblings is far-reaching. Not only does it too for families with our communities but it also establishes a foundation for early learning,” says Roy.
Combined, the two sites will have a total of 98 spaces. Chair of the Rainy River DSSAB Deb Ewald says it’s needed.
“This is a great thing to have happen here. It needs to be done. We’re getting more young people in our area all the time and it’s a great partnership,” says Ewald.
Other daycare facilities are in the works for Atikokan and Rainy River. Both will be located in new K-12 schools planned.
Another is to be located in the soon to open St. Mary Catholic School in Fort Frances.
