Child-care 'hub' planned
The Record (New Westminster)
February 20, 2008 
By: Theresa McManus

An early childhood development hub is being explored for the Royal City's uptown/downtown neighbourhood.

John Stark, the city's senior social planner, said the goal of hubs is to centralize services by providing several services at one point of access.

"It's a model that has worked elsewhere," he said.

According to the city, many communities have established hubs to support the healthy development of children, aged six years and under, and their families. Hubs can be a single location or a network of places working together to offer programs, services and events.

"Some people think it has to be a large stand-alone facility. It doesn't have to be," Stark said.

Stark said a hub has to provide a range of services, such as a child-care facility and a parenting program….

In addition to improving access to and quality of services for young children, staff said early childhood development hubs will enhance the city's attractiveness to families and will be an important consideration in the location and relocation of businesses.