Dixon Grove JMS needs a New Child Care Centre now

Child care projects, approved by the Ministry of Education have been put on hold. Dixon Grove projects are shovel-ready: designed, tendered, with a building permit, budget allocation and awaiting final Approval to Proceed (ATP) from the Ministry of Education however the Ministry of Education’s refuses to recognize and pay the actual cost to build the centre. Costs have escalated as a result of inflation, pandemic labour shortages and a slow provincial approval process. Some projects were tendered, but the bids came in 43% higher than the approved budget. We need parents and community members to advocate for the funding of a new Child Care Centre at Dixon Grove Junior Middle School in Etobicoke. As a member of the community and a concerned parent, I believe it is crucial to uphold the promise of providing high-quality, affordable, non-profit child care for families in our area.

The government made a commitment to create 30,000 new licensed child care spaces in schools through the Canada Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) Agreement and the Ontario Action Plan. This commitment was not just a mere promise; it was a pledge to support families, enhance early childhood development, and facilitate workforce participation. It's imperative that this commitment is honored and fulfilled without delay.

Access to affordable child care is essential for families across Etobicoke. It not only supports parents in the workforce but also ensures that children have access to enriching early learning experiences, setting them up for success in their educational journey. By investing in a new Child Care Centre at Dixon Grove JMS, we can alleviate the child care burden on families, promote early childhood development, and contribute to a stronger, more inclusive community.

Furthermore, it is vital that this child care facility remains non-profit. Non-profit child care centers prioritize the well-being of children over profit margins, ensuring that resources are directed towards providing the highest quality care and educational programs. Families should not have to choose between quality and affordability when it comes to child care, and a non-profit model guarantees that children receive the best possible start in life without placing undue financial strain on parents.

I urge Stephen Lecce, MP Yvan Baker, Dan MacLean Trustee Ward 2 and Councillor Stephen Holyday to prioritize the funding of the New Child Care Centre at Dixon Grove JMS and honor the government's commitment to creating accessible, high-quality child care spaces for families in Etobicoke. By doing so, we demonstrate our dedication to supporting families, fostering early childhood development, and building a stronger, more equitable society for all.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to seeing positive action taken to fulfill this important commitment.

Sincerely,
Nazlene Hamid