After four years of dreaming, planning, and tireless fundraising, a dedicated group of volunteers is making real progress toward bringing a much-needed childcare centre to Austin.
What began as a simple conversation in 2021 has turned into a registered cooperative with architectural plans, community support, and a major provincial grant application that could cover more than half the costs. Led by board president Jo-elle Early, the North Norfolk Childcare Cooperative is inching closer to its goal, and the team is feeling optimistic.
“We’re really hopeful we’ll be open in 2026. Whether that’s June or December is hard to say, but as long as there are no major delays, we’re confident that we can open our doors next year," says Early.
A local childcare shortage
Childcare has long been a missing piece in North Norfolk. For years, families in Austin and the surrounding rural area have had to rely on in-home care or commute to Portage and other nearby towns to access licensed spots. The co-op aims to change that, not just to support working parents, but to strengthen the community.
“This has been talked about for generations, but time, money, and commitment were always the big hurdles. We’re proud to say we’ve managed to keep it going," she explains.
A generous offer
The project officially launched in August 2021, when a group of residents came together to address the childcare shortage. The original plan was to build a brand-new centre from scratch, but then a new opportunity came along and changed everything.
A local not-for-profit, which had been using a building in Austin as a drop-in rental space, offered it to the co-op completely free of charge.
“They said if we wanted to take it on, we could have it. The building had been given to them years ago, and they wanted to pay it forward,” Early explains.
That building is now set to become the home of a childcare centre. It's structurally sound but will need significant renovations to meet provincial licensing standards. Architectural planning is already complete, and the co-op has applied for the ELCC Funding Grant, which, if approved, would cover 60 per cent of renovation costs.
“We called it a celebration, even just applying. It’s been four years of work to get to this point.”
A functional space
Transforming the donated space into a licensed childcare centre is no small task. Provincial regulations cover everything from a fire suppression system to the number of sinks in the kitchen.
“Childcare facilities have to be laid out very specifically. Bathrooms need to be open concept, space requirements depending on the age of the children, and we also need a fully fenced playground, fire suppression system, and accessible parking,” she notes.
Despite the challenges, there’s already progress. The kitchen only needs one more sink, and there’s a perfect corner that can be turned into an office. The co-op also recently purchased the adjacent lot to allow space for parking and outdoor play.
Plans for the centre include dedicated rooms for both infants and preschoolers, each with direct access to outdoor play areas, designed to give kids a safe, fun, and stimulating environment.
Built for the community
As a cooperative, the childcare facility will be partially owned and operated by the community. For just $20 per year, anyone can become a member, whether they have children enrolled or simply want to support the initiative.
“Membership gives you voting rights and a say in how the board is run. Families will need to be members to enroll their children, but the fee stays the same no matter how many kids you have enrolled," she explains.
Members will elect the board, help shape decisions, and ensure the centre remains community-led for years to come.
Fuelled by fundraising
This project has been powered by a strong mix of community donations, municipal backing, support from local businesses, and funding from the Norfolk Foundation.
The co-op’s biggest fundraiser of the year, running a food booth at the Manitoba Threshermen’s Reunion, was a huge success.
“This year was our best year yet. It’s a huge amount of work, over 450 volunteer hours, but 100% of that money goes back into the daycare," she says.
Soup & Pie night
The next chance to support the project comes on October 26, with the Soup & Pie Fundraiser at Austin Hall. This cozy, fall supper–style evening is by donation and features a variety of homemade soups, buns, and desserts generously donated by community members.
It’s a great way to support the cause while enjoying a warm meal and catching up with neighbours.
The co-op also welcomes donations via e-transfer, which can be sent to nnchildcarecoop@wcgwave.ca. They also accept cheques and as a registered charity, they can now issue tax receipts for donations $20 or more. Reach out on Facebook to donate or get involved.
Looking ahead with optimism
Though there’s still work to be done, especially with staffing and securing final funds, the team remains confident that things are finally falling into place.
Much of the progress so far has been behind the scenes, but when construction begins and people see renovations taking shape, the project will start to feel real. The board is hopeful that seeing those changes will get the community even more excited and bring in a fresh wave of support.
Once the renovation timeline is finalized, the co-op will build in a small buffer, set an official opening date, and begin registration, which will be a welcome relief for many local families.
“We’ve all had moments where we wanted to throw in the towel, but we stuck with it, and now we’re seeing the payoff. We’re excited to bring a childcare centre to Austin, and we're so grateful to everyone who’s helped us get this far.”
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