SUNDRE - Despite initial concerns that the COVID-19 pandemic might herald the Sundre Daycare Centre’s demise, the non-profit group’s board of directors were pleased to announce recently that the light at the end of the tunnel appears to be growing brighter.
“When the board first considered the challenge of continuing to pay bills…without any income coming in, we were concerned that our little non-profit centre wouldn’t be able to weather the storm, and would eventually shut down permanently,” said Kim Free, treasurer, in a press release dated Monday, April 20.
“But with a lot of grit, determination, and incredible community support, things are looking up!” Free said.
After receiving the government’s mandate to close the centre’s doors on March 13, the daycare “has made incredible strides to garner community support via fundraising, board volunteerism, staff, and community support,” she added.
The centre provides care for up to 85 local children ages 12 months to 12 years old, and meets an important need in the community, as it offers subsidies for low-income families, extended hours for those working shift work, and is the only licensed non-profit childcare centre in Sundre, she said.
Executive director Leah Penner and assistant director Rhonda Jordan continue to support the centre’s efforts from home, and have been busy answering parent emails, staying up-to-date with regards to government support programs, and pursuing grant applications.
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Aside from payroll, the centre’s largest expense is rent, which includes space provided by Chinook’s Edge School Division, for after-school programs, as well as the Town of Sundre, for daycare and pre-school programming, reads the press release.
Free expressed gratitude to both landlords for waiving the rental costs while the centre remains non-operational, said Free.
“This rent relief will allow those funds to be directed toward non-negotiable ongoing costs such as administration, rental insurance and utilities,” she said.
Additionally, fundraising efforts have played an important role, with community supporters stepping up “above and beyond.”
Meanwhile, board members, staff as well as other volunteers plan to make the most of the difficult situation, and will use available time to tackle projects at the centre, while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
“Although funds are tight, now is a great time to do a deep clean and make some improvements to the space, while the centre is closed,” said Janelle Mikal, board president.
“We look forward to re-launching our programs and services with a fresh and tidied up space that all of our families and children can enjoy.”
