More than 200 new child care spaces coming to Vernon

The City of Vernon has announced that more than 200 much-needed new childcare spaces are to created thanks to a $7-million grant from the provincial government.

The spaces will be created on two separate sites in Vernon and it's hoped they'll be ready to open by the fall of 2022.

"We are thrilled about this news, knowing what a positive impact more child care spaces will make on our community as a whole," Vernon Mayor Victor Cumming said in a media release. "By providing and improving local childcare options, we will be able to offer more parents much needed support to participate in the workforce, advance their careers, operate businesses, provide professional services, or attend school or training."

According to the release, one of the new facilities will be built on a vacant lot on Cummins Road, adjacent to Lakers Clubhouse. The facility will have 36 spaces for children under three years old, and 50 spaces for between three years old and school-age children.

The second site is scheduled to be built at the Vernon Recreation Complex grounds and will provide 24 spaces for kids under three, and 96 for between three and school-age.

The City has a well-known shortage of childcare spaces which was highlighted in a report released earlier this year which said Greater Vernon had a "desperate need" for additional child care spaces.

The City of Vernon is partnering with the Okanagan Boys and Girls Club to operate the facilities.

The two child care facilities have come about thanks to a $6 million grant from the Ministry of Children and Family Development, and a further $1 million grant from the Union B.C. Municipalities Community Child Care Space Creation Program.

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