Child care forum seeks public input
Powell River Peak
May 23, 2007

Politicians examining community requirements

Child care that is high quality, accessible and affordable plays an important role in making and keeping Powell River a great place to live, and will be the subject of an assembly.

For Child Care Conversations, from 7 to 9 pm on Thursday, May 24, at the Powell River Town Centre Hotel, Walter Paul, chief councillor of the Tla'Amin (Sliammon) First Nation; Powell River Mayor Stewart Alsgard; Nicolas Simons, Powell River-Sunshine Coast MLA; and Blair Wilson, MP for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, have agreed to take a look at this community through the eyes of children and families, and to share their vision for a flourishing community that cares for kids. Powell River Regional District chairman Colin Palmer is unavailable to attend, but plans to provide a statement to be read at the event. The representatives will also be there to listen to stories about child care--finding it, getting to it, paying for it, or providing it--during this town hall-style meeting.

Sandra McDowell, marketing and branch operations manager at the Powell River Credit Union Financial Group, will moderate the evening. "I really encourage people to come out and voice their opinions and concerns," says McDowell. "It's a good opportunity to meet with local leaders on this topic."

The documentary, Kids Can't Wait: BC's Child Care Challenge, will be shown in the room at the hotel starting at 6:45 pm, before the main event.

Child care funding in BC and across the country has suffered serious setbacks recently and local services are suffering. A recent study on child care in Powell River, which surveyed more than 70 parents and guardians, shows that there are some big gaps in local services. Most respondents wanted to have their children cared for in a regulated child care setting, yet nearly 40 per cent said that they were at some time not able to get the care they wanted or needed.

Many reported that their work schedules change on a seasonal basis, or involve shift work, making it particularly difficult to find a suitable child care situation. A total of 69 per cent reported that their work or study hours are limited by a lack of affordable, available, quality care.

Child care providers reported feeling equally frustrated. Many in this group said they got into the field because of their love for children and their interest in making a positive contribution to their community. Yet very poor working conditions--low pay, few benefits and little recognition for their work--are compelling them to look for work in other fields.