The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is expanding access to affordable childcare after Council approved the contract award for renovations that will transform space at Riverview Gardens into a new licensed childcare centre.
The project will create 49 new affordable childcare spaces in central Chatham, addressing a shortage of licensed childcare for children from birth to four years of age. The centre will be owned by the Municipality and operated by a non-profit childcare provider selected through a separate competitive process, offering care through the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program.
“This project is another example of how Chatham-Kent continues to invest in the services that families need,” said Mayor Darrin Canniff. “Adding 49 new affordable childcare spaces to our community will help parents access quality care close to home while supporting our continued growth. I want to thank the provincial and federal governments for investing in this important project and helping make affordable childcare more accessible for Chatham-Kent families.”
The renovations will transform existing space within Riverview Gardens into a purpose-built centre featuring classrooms for infants, toddlers and preschool-aged children, accessible washrooms, a kitchen, staff support areas, modern technology and new outdoor play spaces.
“This is much more than a new childcare centre,” said Josh Myers, Director of Child Care and Early Years. “We’re creating a space where children can learn, grow and thrive while building meaningful connections with older generations. By bringing childcare and long-term care together, we’re creating opportunities that will enrich the lives of children, residents and families alike. At the same time, these new affordable spaces will help more parents participate in the workforce and strengthen our community as a whole.”
“This is a unique opportunity for the Municipality and Riverview Gardens to collaborate with the selected childcare provider to create meaningful enrichment opportunities for children and seniors in our community,” said Jessica Francis, Director of Seniors Services.
“Integrating childcare within a long-term care home offers significant benefits for residents through regular intergenerational interactions that foster social connection, purpose, and overall well-being. This partnership also supports staff by providing access to convenient childcare options, helping to enhance recruitment and retention efforts while promoting a positive work-life balance for employees.”
The project is fully funded through the Early Learning Child Care Infrastructure Fund, supported by the provincial and federal governments, with no cost to municipal property taxpayers for construction.
Construction is expected to be completed later this year, with the new childcare spaces anticipated to open before the end of 2026.
