The Parry Sound District is a ‘childcare desert’.
That’s according to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives as the centre says there are only enough licensed childcare spaces to serve 27 per cent of children in need.
The Waubeek Early Learning and Childcare Centre in Parry Sound has space for 55 children and 183 children are currently on a waiting list, according to the District of Parry Sound Social Services.
Local mother Alex Pritchard is frustrated by the lack of urgency in communicating and addressing the region’s childcare needs.
“I think we are just seen as numbers waiting on a waitlist. Nobody is seeing the human, family and child development cost of this lack of infrastructure,” said Pritchard.
“It’s like winning the lottery to get into a registered daycare because it is half the price. This summer between camps, needing to maintain just part time hours, and private daycare, I will actually be paying for the privilege to be working.”
Her situation prompted her to act.
Pritchard is urging local municipalities to join forces, and work with the District of Parry Sound Social Services to come up with a solution that will address the region’s current and future childcare needs.
She made a deputation to Parry Sound Council on April 16.