Plans are being finalized for Kiddie Sunshine Centre's proposed new daycare facility in Altona.  

Board Chair Laura Wiebe says they have secured long term agreements with Border Land School Division (BLSD) for the building site, in the form of two 20-year leases. 

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.  

"We have been working with (Winnipeg-based) MCM Architects to design a new build for 138 children in order to help us meet the current childcare demands, as well as to provide capacity for future community growth," explained Wiebe. "Our project budget right now is sitting at $6.5 million. Our floor plans have been approved from the Manitoba government. and we need to secure funds to be able to get our capital building grant and licensing applications submitted."

Wiebe says an older building south of the office on the division property will be demolished to make room for the new daycare with a parking loop for drop-offs.

Meantime, Wiebe says the Board was thrilled with last week's announcement that the Town of Altona has committed $1 million toward the project.

Earlier funds collected for renovations to the centre's existing location are now being directed toward soft costs of the expansion project, such as the building design. Wiebe notes, the Board now needs to find the rest of the money required to construct the $6.5 million building.

"The scale of this project is significant and we also have to adhere by very strict safety guidelines that are outlined for us from the Province to ensure that everything is up to the standards and codes to provide a high quality, safe space for childcare. It certainly is a significant investment in our community and something that [will] need additional support from community businesses as well as individuals."

Roughly half the needed funds have been raised through fundraising efforts, generous local commitments and provincial grants, but Wiebe says will need help to reach their goal by the end of 2022.

Since childcare is about giving back and providing for families, Wiebe says Kiddie Sunshine Daycare will kick off it's fall fundraising campaign by hosting a Capes & Gowns Gala Fundraiser on October 15th, 2-5pm at the Millennium Exhibition Centre in Altona. 

With special royal and super hero guests expected to stop by, children are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite royalty or super hero. The event will include tea party snacks, crafts and face painting. Admission is $35 for guests ages 1 to 100. Those under the age of 1 are admitted free of charge. Early bird pricing of $25 is available till September 30th. 

Tickets are available through Kiddie Sunshine Centre's website and Facebook page or by phoning 204-999-8649. 

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