NEWS RELEASE
YMCA OF SIMCOE/MUSKOKA
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Over the past several weeks, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. The Y has launched a virtual YMCA (YMCA at Home), created an online physical activity resource to support distance teaching (YGym) and has continued to support some of our community’s most vulnerable individuals through its employment services, immigrant services and youth services programs.
Now, the Y is stepping up to open Simcoe County’s first licensed emergency child care centre for frontline workers.
“At our core, the YMCA has always been about helping families and this is why I am so pleased that we will be providing child care to the families of those delivering essential services,” said Rob Armstrong, CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. “We are proud to be a part of the County of Simcoe's emergency child care plan and thank our partners at the County for their continued support and leadership.”
The YMCA has worked with the County of Simcoe, Public Health, Child Care Licensing, Barrie Fire and Georgian College over the last few weeks in preparation for the upcoming opening.
“Providing safe and accessible child care options to our front-line professionals working in essential services is a key step in helping to alleviate staffing shortages and maintain critical community services,” said County of Simcoe Warden George Cornell. “The County is grateful to the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka for working with us and continuing their tremendous contributions to our families in need, and thankful to our front-line workers who are doing everything they can to serve the residents of Simcoe County during these uncertain times.”
“We are confident that we have put in place the required safeguards to protect the children in our care, their families and our staff,” said Fiona Cascagnette, Vice President of Child and Family Development at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. “I wish to thank those members of our YMCA team who have stepped up to fill this important role in supporting our community.”
The YMCA’s child care centre located at Georgian College in Barrie will be open to serve the families of those working in essential services effective Monday, April 27. Registration will be administered by the County of Simcoe.
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