Graphic image of the Coaldale Recreation Centre. (Photo: Town of Coaldale)

By David Opinko

BGC Lethbridge signs 10-year childcare deal with Coaldale rec centre

May 4, 2023 | 10:56 AM

COALDALE, AB – Parents in Coaldale will soon have another option for childcare and youth recreation.

BGC Lethbridge, formerly known as the Boys & Girls Club of Lethbridge, has entered into a 10-year agreement with the Town of Coaldale to provide childcare services, after school programming, and summer youth camps at the Town’s new multi-use recreation centre.

Mayor Jack Van Rijn said he is proud to announce the awarding of the childcare services contract.

“Right now, daycare options in Coaldale are limited, while afterschool programming remains oversubscribed. That’s why we wanted to make sure that quality childcare services would be available at the new rec centre, once it opens,” said Van Rijn. “A lot of people don’t realize it, but providing access to quality childcare is about more than supporting safe and healthy childhood development.”

Van Rijn adds that this will also support working parents, and, by extension, the local economy.

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“This is why as a Council, we firmly believe in the importance of expanding access to quality childcare in Coaldale, and are excited to be working with BGC Lethbridge in order to do just that,” said Van Rijn.

BGC Lethbridge will have access to more than 3,000 square feet of daycare space and 2,500 square feet of play area at the facility.

Nadine Veenendaal, Club Lead for the BGC Lethbridge’s location at Jennie Emery Elementary School, said daycare will be offered for children as young as three years old.

“Since 2019, BGC Lethbridge has been a proud member of the Coaldale community,” said Veenendaal. “I’m excited to expand the reach of BGC Lethbridge in Coaldale, and to better meet the needs of our growing community! BGC Lethbridge is thrilled to be partnering with the Town of Coaldale and to provide services at the much-anticipated community rec centre!”

The BGC Lethbridge recently received a $300,000 grant to help fund the construction of a large indoor play centre at the Coaldale multi-use recreation centre.

The facility is expected to open in 2024.

READ MORE: Coaldale launches phase two of rec centre capital campaign

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