MAPLE RIDGE – New Democrat MLAs Lisa Beare and Bob D’Eith are celebrating the creation of 700 new child care spaces in the Maple Ridge area since the BC New Democrats formed government in 2017, part of the fastest creation of child care spaces in B.C.’s history.

“These spaces are just one more way we are making life better for families,” said Lisa Beare, MLA for Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows. “Making childcare more affordable and accessible was one of our government’s key commitments, and I’m so glad we are making progress on this goal.”

“As we plan our long-term recovery from the impacts of COVID-19, access to childcare will be essential,” said Bob D’Eith, MLA for Maple Ridge – Mission. “Parents can confidently return to work or school knowing their children are being cared for in a safe, nurturing environment.”

Today the newest 59 spaces were announced in Pitt Meadows, at a future child care facility to be located at Davie Jones Elementary and operated by the YMCA of Greater Vancouver.

The announcement of this local investment comes as part of a milestone in the BC government’s Childcare BC plan. To date, the BC New Democrat government has invested $41.6 million in expanding access and reducing the cost of child care in Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge – Mission. The Childcare BC plan has helped parents save up to $1,600 a month, per child, for a total of nearly $20 million being returned to parents in the area through the Affordable Child Care Benefit and the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative.

As families have adapted to the new normal of COVID-19, childcare has become even more important for parents to return to work, especially essential workers who continue to serve our communities during these unprecedented times. To support child care providers in Maple Ridge during these challenging times, the Province has provided $9.1 million in Temporary Emergency Funding.

The New Democrat government is working to keep people safe and healthy, while planning a long-term recovery to build B.C. back stronger. While our government has made significant progress, there is much more to do, together.

For more about Childcare BC, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare