EXCERPTS

Child-care centres across the province have an opportunity to create a more safe and comfortable environment for Nova Scotia's children.

The Department of Community Services will provide $1 million for eligible day cares to spruce up facilities.

Licensed non-profit and commercial child-care centres can apply for funding to make improvements, such as replacing windows, installing accessibility ramps and adding energy efficient furnaces.

Non-profit centres may be eligible for a 75 per cent forgivable loan, with the remaining 25 per cent provided through an equity contribution or a low-interest repayable loan from the Department of Community Services.

Commercial centres are eligible for a 25 per cent forgivable loan, with the remaining 75 per cent provided through an equity contribution, third-party funding, or a low-interest repayable loan from the department.

Applications for funding must be received by the Department of Community Services by Oct. 30.

-reprinted from the Canadian Press