Plans to expand and enhance the Kiddie Sunshine Daycare Centre in Altona have been scrapped in favour of an entirely new building.

In a news release, the Board of Directors explained upon further review, the current facility on Centre Ave. doesn't provide sufficient space for future growth, and requires extensive upgrades to meet fire, electrical and plumbing codes, as well as to ensure accessibility of service.

As a result, the Board has come up with a revised long term expansion strategy that includes merging operations with the Rhineland Childcare Centre located at the Border Land School Division (BLSD) office, to construct a proposed brand new childcare facility with 135 spaces. Currently, the Kiddie Sunshine Centre provides care for a total of 49 children, and has an average wait list of at least 50 at any given time.

Following a meeting in November, BLSD trustees indicated a willingness to support the expansion project. As a result, the Division is providing a long term lease on a section of land at 120 9th St NW at a nominal amount
of $1 per year, and has officially approved the amalgamation between the two childcare centres. The merger will take effect January 1, 2022.

“Kiddie Sunshine Centre has been working towards expanding and enhancing childcare in the community for the past few years. We are excited to collaborate with Borderland School Division and welcome Rhineland Child Care Centre into the Kiddie Sunshine Centre Family. Access to quality childcare is critical for working families in our community. The planned construction of a new 135 space daycare Centre will more than double the existing number of licensed spaces in our community. The expansion will benefit both working families and employers in Altona and the surrounding areas and will also create new jobs in Early Childhood Education,” said Laura Wiebe, Chairperson Kiddie Sunshine Board of Directors. “We are so thankful for our community supporters and most importantly want to express our gratitude for all the Early Childhood Educators in our community. Without them, none of this would be possible.”

“BLSD is excited to be part of a partnership that will bring a brand new daycare facility along with more, much needed, daycare spaces and employment opportunities to the community. We look forward to working together with Kiddie Sunshine Centre as we sort details and see a successful project to fruition. We know it will be a lengthy process, and we look forward to updating everyone on the progress being made.” added Krista Curry, Border Land School Division Superintendent.

According to the Kiddie Sunshine Board, next steps include sourcing funding for the construction of the building, with an ambitious three year growth plan.

“Town of Altona Council is in full support of the joining forces of Kiddie Sunshine Centre and Rhineland Childcare Centre,” said Mayor Al Friesen. “This ambitious project will address the critical need for additional daycare space in our community now and for the foreseeable future. It's an undertaking that will be critical in attracting young families that will grow our community and our local economy. We encourage the community to throw its collective shoulder behind this initiative.”