ASSINIBOIA — Lack of accessible childcare in Assiniboia continues to motivate the volunteer board and group working towards fundraising and completion of Golden Â鶹´«Ã½AV Childcare.
The ongoing commitment of those who have volunteered to bring their vision to reality of a licensed childcare centre in Assiniboia is edging closer. Phase one goal was $60,000 and through a social media post, the organization said they are projecting just over $27,000 to meet their phase one goal.
Kal-Tire held a barbecue and matched donations to be earmarked for the child care centre.
The group was thrilled to receive a generous donation from Â鶹´«Ã½AVland Co-op. The co-op committed to donating $30,000 towards this project over three years.
At the end of August, Golden Â鶹´«Ã½AV Child Care reported that has been making great progress. The nap room, bathrooms and kitchen are all framed in and they’ve put in larger windows to meet the natural light requirements for a childcare centre.
However, the board acknowledges there is still a long way to go as they need to fundraise for new flooring, kitchen cabinets and appliances.
An online auction that included items like toys, home décor, homemade goods and baking was set up to run from Oct. 12-18.
Next up for this ongoing community project is the annual ladies' night fundraiser, this year featuring banger bingo. Tickets will go on sale Nov. 1.
In previous stories in Assiniboia Times and SASKTODAY.ca, the group affirms the lack of accessible childcare impacts not only the young families in need of care but also the growth and sustainability of the community. The result of inadequate childcare will be fewer families able to make their homes in Assiniboia which means fewer employees, entrepreneurs, customers, volunteers and community members here to keep the community thriving.
A group of mothers started the groundwork for this project as they were struggling with childcare options. From that first meeting, the group took it upon themselves to address the gap in childcare services in the community.
The Golden Â鶹´«Ã½AV Child Care board and volunteers have all dedicated free since April of 2022, incorporating as a non-profit organization and then recruiting a board of directors. Fundraising efforts quickly followed.
The 10-member board and community volunteers have logged countless hours, continuing their commitment to see their vision come to fruition.
Community support has been another one of their motivating factors as groups and organizations continue to earmark funds from varying events to their efforts. As the saying goes, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”
