Keeping Children Safe When Working or Studying Late

November 3, 2008 – Finding affordable, reliable child care has long been a significant issue for parents who work non-traditional hours or attend night classes.  With this in mind, Thunder Bay's Grace Remus Child Care Centre has announced a new program that caters specifically to families who need late night/early morning child care.  Effective Jan. 5, 2009, the Centre will be open from 6:45 am until 2:00 am.

Approval for the extension was recently granted by Thunder Bay City Council. "Council recognized that there are many shift workers in the City of Thunder Bay such as in the health care system, service sector, various mills and industries, protective services, public works, transportation, corrections and social services that do not work traditional hours," said Mayor Lynn Peterson.

The program is a pilot project that was developed through a partnership with the Thunder Bay District Social Services Administration Board and the City. Based on the demand for the service, recommendation for continuance or termination of the project will be made after one year.

"Our professional and dedicated Early Childhood Educators focus on providing the best possible experience for the families that we serve whether it's during the day, late at night or early in the morning," said Jackie Jaklitch, ECE Supervisor – Grace Remus Child Care Centre. "Our new extended hours demonstrate our commitment to a high level of service."

In the meantime, those who would like to have information on registration, the fee schedule, subsidy eligibility, or to ask for a tour, phone 684-3954.

- 30 -

Contact: Jackie Jaklitch, ECE Supervisor - Grace Remus Child Care Centre, 684-3594 or
              jjaklitch@thunderbay.ca.