BC NDP MLA Randene Neill says after-school care spaces coming to West Sechelt Elementary

SECHELT– New Democrat MLA Randene Neill says that families in Sechelt will benefit from more after-school child care spaces on school grounds this year, unlocking access to care closer to where kids and families already are.

“Having dependable childcare is essential for families on the coast,” said Randene Neill, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast. “These new after-school spaces at West Sechelt Elementary will help parents finish their work day knowing their child is well staffed, cared for and safe.”

At West Sechelt Elementary (SD46), 12 new after-school child care spaces on school grounds for school aged kids are expected to begin operating this school year.

Across B.C., 22 school districts are receiving funding to open nearly 1,200 new before- and after-school spaces this year.

The new spaces are funded through $5 million in capital funding from the Ministry of Infrastructure to support renovations and the repurposing of existing space in school buildings. School districts are also receiving support through the Ministry of Education and Child Care, including $20 million to support operating costs over the next three years, and $2 million for costs such as staff training and purchasing equipment.

School districts will also have access to a $2.9 million provincial investment to create more board-operated school age care programs over the next two years, with funding applications opening this fall.

Families who attend the programs created through these initiatives will benefit from the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative, which reduces the cost of child care by up to $320 per child per month for school age care. Those families that need additional support may also be eligible for the Affordable Child Care Benefit.