The government is providing funding for a $10-million expansion of the child care centre at Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax. Half of the cost will be covered by government funding, with Ottawa providing $3 million, the province contributing $2 million, and the university providing $5 million. The expansion will add 82 more child-care spaces and introduce up to 32 infant spaces, in addition to the existing full-day care program for 40 children aged 18 months to five years. The funding will also enhance the education of students in the university’s child and youth study program as they train to become early childhood educators. Design work for the expansion is currently underway, and construction is expected to take about two years to complete.
The Nova Scotia government has committed to creating 9,500 new child-care spaces across the province by March 2026. This initiative is part of a federal-provincial child care agreement aimed at increasing access to affordable and quality child care for families. The expansion of the child care centre at Mount Saint Vincent University is just one example of how government funding is being used to support the growth of child care services in the province. By investing in early childhood education and care, the government aims to provide children with a strong foundation for future learning and development, while also supporting parents who are working or studying by providing access to safe and reliable child care options.
The announcement of government funding for the child care centre expansion at Mount Saint Vincent University comes at a time when demand for child care services is high and waiting lists for child care spaces are common in many communities. By increasing the number of child care spaces available, the government is working to reduce wait times for families in need of child care and to ensure that all children have access to high-quality early childhood education. In addition to creating new spaces, the funding will also support the training and education of future early childhood educators, helping to build a skilled workforce that is equipped to provide children with the care and support they need to thrive.
The expansion of the child care centre at Mount Saint Vincent University is part of a larger effort to address the growing need for child care services in Nova Scotia. By partnering with the federal government and the university, the province is able to leverage funding and resources to support the expansion of child care facilities and programs. This collaborative approach allows for the development of innovative solutions to meet the diverse needs of families and children, while also creating opportunities for students to gain practical experience and training in the field of early childhood education. Through these partnerships, the government is able to maximize the impact of its funding and support the long-term sustainability of child care services in the province.
The government’s investment in the expansion of the child care centre at Mount Saint Vincent University reflects a commitment to early childhood education and care as a priority for the province. By increasing access to affordable and high-quality child care, the government is working to support families, children, and communities across Nova Scotia. Through targeted funding initiatives and partnerships with universities and other organizations, the government is able to create new opportunities for children to learn, grow, and thrive in safe and nurturing environments. As the demand for child care services continues to grow, the government remains dedicated to expanding capacity and improving the accessibility and affordability of child care for all families in the province.
Overall, the government’s investment in the expansion of the child care centre at Mount Saint Vincent University represents a significant step towards meeting the growing demand for child care services in Nova Scotia. By providing funding and support for the development of new child care spaces and programs, the government is helping to ensure that families have access to the resources they need to support their children’s early learning and development. Through partnerships with universities, community organizations, and other stakeholders, the government is able to leverage funding and expertise to create a more comprehensive and sustainable child care system that meets the needs of families and children now and in the years to come.
