Healthcare facilities, schools, and postsecondary institutions across Manitoba will soon open new childcare spaces for children up to six years of age, according to a recent announcement from the province. The new spaces come courtesy of a partnership between the provincial and federal governments.
“We’re investing in childcare spaces to meet parents and caregivers where they’re at to make life easier for families,” says Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Education and Early Childhood. “Our government continues to build the childcare system as a whole—creating spaces that meet the needs of families, offering programming to attract and support childcare professionals, and investing in learning outcomes for a quality early education experience.”
The plan, signed by both levels of government, details how Manitoba will invest $20.9 million in federal funding over three years to support the creation of approximately 324 childcare spaces in healthcare facilities across the province.
Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors, and Long-Term Care, says that it’s important for government to invest in spaces that offer childcare outside of typical hours, to support staff and families in the hospital environment.
“Bolstering our childcare system helps parents working in the healthcare sector return to work and pick up extra shifts because they have childcare that works for their families,” says Asagwara. “These spaces are another tool that supports the recruitment and retention of new healthcare providers, having a direct impact on the healthcare system and improving the quality of life for all Manitobans.”
Another 256 spaces will open in six schools. This is in addition to 36 previously announced new school-based facilities, additions, and renovations. In total, these projects have resulted in more than 2,600 new infant and preschool spaces in partnership with 19 school divisions.
But are any local school divisions benefiting from these new spaces? Three superintendents who responded to The Citizen’s questions expressed uncertainty.
“To be quite honest, we are aware of the investment, as we heard about it through the media,” says Alain Laberge, superintendent of the DSFM. “We know that there will be money for francophone childcare, but it is not clear if it will all go to Fédération des Parents de la Francophonie Manitobaine, to DSFM, or if both organizations will get funding. The provincial government did not approach us, and we are awaiting a more precise document.”
Colin Campbell, superintendent-CEO of the Seine River School Division, also did not have any concrete knowledge of local plans to add childcare.
“I have not received information from [the] government regarding additional childcare facilities,” says Campbell. “We are always happy to partner with government to collaboratively provide childcare spots for our families.”
Campbell cautioned that the SRSD currently has very little space in their schools for additional spots.
The answer from the Hanover School Division was even more vague.
“We all benefit when the province invests in childcare, as it supports families and strengthens communities,” commented Joe Thiessen, superintendent-CEO of the HSD.
