It’s been a six-year-long project, but the long-awaited Leroy Daycare Centre opened its doors on September 9. The daycare, attached to the Evergreen Country Home seniors assisted living facility, is in response to Leroy’s need for childcare in a safe and nurturing environment. 

Spearheading the project is Kimberley Block who is delighted that the community commitment and the organizing committee’s hard work has finally paid off. 

Block gives a bit of history to the centre, “In November 2013, we started the board because there was a need for childcare. It did take quite a while to get the ball rolling and figure out exactly where we wanted to be situated.”

The organizers had several options including building an entirely new structure or renovating an existing available building. However, the committee was approached by Evergreen Country Home who had available space. When the cost analysis was completed, not only did Evergreen Country Home provide the most viable option, it came with an added bonus. 

Chelsey Holt, also with the Daycare Committee, explains that the presence of the seniors in the same facility will lead to some options to have the seniors and children get together for some cross-generational fun and learning.

Holt explains, “We’re hoping to take the first couple of weeks to get up and running on our own and get comfortable in our space. Once that happens, we’re going to start some programming, whether it’s crafts or baking or storytime with residents of the Evergreen.”

Holt details, “Right now, we are licensed for twenty spaces so we are close to full, but there are still a few spots available. For a starting point, we’re very happy with our numbers.”

The contractor was putting a few finishing touches on the centre, but the doors will open on this new centre to an excited group of youngsters coming together to learn and play in Leroy.