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An organization has been started to help provide more childcare facilities in the region. So far there are only 2 licensed daycares in the area. The group began to work on the project because families had been approaching them saying there was not enough child care programs in the area after various daycare facilities closed. The group was formed at a meeting to look into the various opportunities there are within the region for alternative childcare. This group will also be questioning local schools and businesses to see if there is room to be rented for a daycare facility.

According to the group's spokesperson, “Our first step was to do the survey and hold a public meeting. Now that we know there are enough children to warrant daycare services and we have a group of people interested in moving forward, we will start the next step of finding space.”

The group worked together to draft a letter that will be sent to schools, municipalities, churches, community organizations, and the hospital to see if there is any available space in their buildings. There are grants available from the government to prepare or renovate existing space to use as a daycare.

One recommendation of the ministry is to collaborate with Public and Catholic School Districts to establish child care programs in or adjacent to schools. This will allow the schools and childcare facility to work closely to provide optimal service to parents.

Another meeting for childcare feasibility will be set sometime this month to follow up on the response received from letters sent to local businesses.

The group is looking for other people to be on the board. If you are interested please contact the director Penny Fox by phone.