The provincial government has announced a significant investment of $7.6 million aimed at expanding child care services in the Halifax area and East Hants. This financial support is directed towards six child care operators, with the objective of creating hundreds of new child care spaces over the upcoming year.

Minister Brendan Maguire revealed the funding during a press conference held on Thursday morning. He emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “These investments are opening more access to affordable child care to help families in our fastest growing regions. By investing in child care, we invest in families to participate in the workforce and grow our economy.” This statement underscores the government's strategy to not only provide educational facilities for children but also support families in participating actively in the labor market.

The funding will be allocated to various organizations in the region, with each operator set to receive a portion to help them increase their child care capacities. The following organizations are among those benefiting from this initiative:

• ForestKids Early Learning Organization, located in Hammonds Plains, is expected to add up to 12 new child care spaces.
• Silver Crescent Academy in Bedford aims to open up to 40 new spaces.
• Tots Early Learning Society will expand its operations, creating up to 24 new spaces in Enfield and up to 52 new spaces in Lantz.
• Cunard Street Children’s Centre in Halifax plans to provide an additional 54 new spaces for families in the area.
• By the Sea Early Learning in Upper Tantallon will increase its capacity by up to 64 new spaces.
• North End Community Day Care, also located in Halifax, is projected to offer up to 40 new spaces.

The newly created spaces are anticipated to be operational by March 2026, contributing to the ongoing need for child care solutions in these rapidly growing communities. This funding initiative is part of the broader Canada-Nova Scotia Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, highlighting a collaborative effort between federal and provincial governments to improve early childhood education and care services across the region.

By addressing the demand for affordable child care, the provincial government aims to alleviate some of the pressures faced by families in Halifax and East Hants. This strategy is a crucial part of fostering economic growth and ensuring that parents have the necessary resources to balance their work and family responsibilities. Overall, this investment is poised to make a significant impact on the accessibility of child care in the area, facilitating a supportive environment for both children and their families.