Excerpts

Families in Kitsilano now have access to a new, non-profit childcare centre at their local school with the opening of Maple Childcare External website, opens in new tab — a purpose-built facility on the rooftop of Henry Hudson Elementary. 

The $12.7 million childcare centre was jointly funded by the City of Vancouver ($9.7 million) and the Province of BC ($3 million), with space provided by the Vancouver School Board (VSB) as part of the school’s seismically upgraded building. 

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Continued expansion of childcare in Vancouver

Maple Childcare is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to expanding high-quality, affordable childcare across Vancouver. Since City Council’s adoption of Making Strides: Vancouver’s 10-year Childcare Strategy in 2022, the City has made significant progress developing childcare and finding innovative ways to help implement the Provincial and Federal Governments' vision of a universal early care and learning system. Since the strategy was approved by Council in 2022, more than 2,000 new childcare spaces have become operational.

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Building childcare through strong partnerships

The City and the VSB continue to collaborate on bringing innovative childcare to city schools. As part of the VSB's seismic replacement program and new school builds, the VSB, with funding from the City and senior government partners, has been able to build childcare facilities on seven school rooftops, creating a convenient “one-stop hub” for families. 

“Investing in childcare is investing in the future of our communities,” said Brenda Bailey, MLA for Vancouver-South Granville. “We’re pleased to support this new centre and other improvements at Henry Hudson Elementary, which will help more families access the care they need close to home.”

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Childcare for strong communities

Affordable, high-quality childcare is essential for families, communities and Vancouver’s workforce. Childcare further promotes gender equity; without accessible childcare, many families struggle to live and work in Vancouver. The City remains committed to expanding access to affordable childcare, ensuring everyone in Vancouver can learn, work and thrive. 

Notwithstanding these upcoming childcare openings, Vancouver still faces a shortage of childcare compared to the need, and City staff continue to work with partners and senior government to expand childcare options for families.