Ground has been broken on a new $1.2 million daycare in Penticton thanks to a partnership between the B.C Government and Okanagan College.
“This is great news for the local families,” said Penticton MLA Dan Ashton. “Adding 64 new child care spaces for Penticton-area families who need them demonstrates our government’s commitment to building stronger, healthier communities throughout the province.”
The 4,000 sq. ft. facility will be built at the northern end of the college campus , with access from Timmins Street.
The daycare, which is expected to be complete by mid-2017, will be operated by the Penticton and District Community Resources Society.
“There is definitely a need for this capacity,” said PDCRS Executive Director Tanya Behardien. The organization operates eight child care programs in the region, including three centres in Penticton.
“The new child care centre will benefit the community, but is also a major benefit to our students and staff,” said College President Jim Hamilton. “The survey that was part of the business case for the daycare clearly identified the need for this.”
The Government is contributing $500,000 towards the project, the remainder comes from Okanagan college.