Over 70 new child care spaces coming to Vernon, Coldstream

Aug 31, 2026 | 2:55 PM

New before- and after-school care spaces are coming to the North Okanagan.

The province announced it would be funding 73 new child care spaces within School District 22.

Okanagan Landing Elementary, 15 new school-age spaces
Ecole Beairsto Elementary, 30 school-age spaces
Kidston Elementary, 13 school-aged spaces
Lavington Elementary, 15 school-aged spaces

“Working parents and guardians often face many challenges when it comes to accessing quality childcare, that’s why our government has made record investments in childcare,” Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby, stated.

“Having worked shift work and in healthcare throughout my career, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to find childcare outside school hours. Too many parents are forced to choose between work and their families because the options simply aren’t there. Bringing before- and after-school care directly into schools in Vernon and Coldstream will be life-changing for so many families. It means more flexibility, less stress, and peace of mind for parents, especially those working shifts and providing essential services in our community.”

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The new spaces were part of more than 1,200 being established across B.C., funded through a $5-million Ministry of Infrastructure investment. School districts will also have access to $20-million from the Ministry of Education and Child Care to support with operating costs over three years, and $2-million for costs such as staff training and equipment.

Another $2.9-million will become available to create more board-operated child care programs over two years, with the application process set to open in the fall.

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by Liam Verster

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