Families in the Comox Valley now have access to new licensed child care spaces as the new child care centre at G.P. Vanier Secondary School is officially open.

Operated by Today ’N’ Tomorrow Learning Society, the facility supports infants, toddlers, preschool-aged children and expectant and parenting students through the organization’s long-standing Young Parent Program.

The spaces were made possible with more than $7.9 million in funding through the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund.

Through that funding, the centre will accommodate up to 126 children through infant and toddler care, preschool programming, and before and after-school care.

“Families across the Comox Valley have been asking for more child care spaces, and this new centre is an important step forward,” said Board Chairperson Michelle Waite.

“By expanding access to quality child care and early learning opportunities, we are helping children get the best possible start while making it easier for parents and caregivers to participate in work, school and community life.”

The new building brings together several programs in one location on the grounds of G.P. Vanier Secondary.

That includes the Young Parent Program, Teddies ’N’ Toddlers infant and toddler care program and Little Friends Early Learning Centre for children aged three to five.

The centre features bright learning spaces, dedicated sensory and nap areas, age-appropriate washrooms, and outdoor environments that encourage exploration and connection with nature.

The building also includes meeting and support spaces that help families access services and community programs in one location.

The Young Parent Program has supported expectant and parenting students in the Comox Valley for more than 30 years by helping them continue their education while accessing child care, outreach and health supports.

Today ’N’ Tomorrow Learning Society is a not-for-profit organization that has served the Comox Valley since 1993, providing accessible and affordable child care programs for families throughout the community.