Five years of fund raising and planning came to head Tuesday morning as children were welcomed into the new Kiddie Sunshine Daycare facility in Altona for the first time.
Before opening day, parents and stakeholders in the project were given a tour of the state-of-the-art centre. PembinaValleyOnline was invited to tag along.
A labour of love
"To be at this point, where we can finally say that our doors are opening, is pretty phenomenal," said Board Chair Nicole Friesen.
Laura Wiebe served as the organization's Board Chair for most of this project.
"It's been, for us, a labour of love and we're really close to the project. It's kind of become a bit of our baby so now, to be able to show it off, it's like we're kind of proud mamas."
"Everyone that I have seen come through the building, parents and stakeholders, have said that everything is beautiful," added Friesen. "It is very honouring and accomplishing to hear those things."
Licensed for 118 childcare spaces, the facility will add 98 additional spots in the community.
Related Stories:
- Federal, provincial governments kick in $4.1 million for Kiddie Sunshine Centre expansion
- It's day one of construction for Altona's new daycare
Inspired by nature
The aesthetic was inspired by the neighbouring Buffalo Creek Nature Park with furniture, supplies and toys reflecting natural tones and big north and south facing windows providing a light, airy feel. Even the age-specific rooms reflect the natural vibe, named after the many varieties of trees found in the area. Nature is also the focus of the outdoor playground with natural-looking elements for the kids to explore.
It was all paid for thanks to $4.1 million from the Canada-Manitoba Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement and commitments from area municipalities, local businesses and other generous donors.
"There have been many hands touching this project, from the Board of Directors, our Centre leadership as well as community stakeholders and our capital donors, we wouldn't be at this stage without that tremendous community support," added Wiebe.
The work isn't done yet
Acknowledging this milestone, Wiebe said it's also a reminder that there is still lots of work to be done.
"As we continue to serve the community in an expanded way, we're also going to need continued support to provide enrichment activities, we're going to expand our playground in the next few years as well."
You can further support this work by participating in the organization's latest fund raiser - the WestJet Gift of Flight raffle. Tickets are just $25 for a chance to win 1 round trip flight for 2 guests to any regularly scheduled and marketed WestJet destination. Only 600 tickets are available. All proceeds will go towards further playground improvements. Tickets can be purchased from a daycare family OR you can text Sandina @ 1-204-999-8649.
