34 new licensed child care spaces are coming to Callander.
The YMCA of Northeastern Ontario recently celebrated the official groundbreaking of a new child care facility in the community.
Construction on the standalone prefabricated modular building is underway, with the facility expected to open at the end of this year. Officials say it’s designed to provide high-quality early learning and child care for toddlers and preschool-aged children, and includes outdoor play areas, along with dedicated office and kitchen space.
Once complete, the facility will provide:
• 10 toddler spaces
• 24 preschool spaces
The YMCA says the new facility will help address a significant shortage of child care spaces in the Callander area.
“Families want to live, work and build their lives in communities like Callander, and access to quality child care is an important part of making that possible,” says Rob Groccia, Vice President Operations, Child Care, YMCA of Northeastern Ontario. “This new facility will give more families access to high-quality care close to home while creating an environment where children can learn, grow and thrive.”
The YMCA currently operates Early Learning Child Care at St. Theresa in Callander, but officials say demand for additional spaces remains high.
“This is an exciting project for Callander and an important investment in our community’s future,” says Mayor Jordy Carr. “Access to quality child care makes a real difference for local families and helps support a growing, vibrant community.”
This new facility will become YMCA’s 12th child care location in the North Bay area.
Officials say the project has been supported through collaboration with the Parry Sound District Social Services Administration Board, the Municipality of Callander and the Ontario Ministry of Education.
