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Richmond YMCA expands school-based programs to full-day during COVID-19

The YMCA’s four before- and after-school care programs in Richmond are being extended into full-day care, starting April 1, because of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Seasong Child Care Centre
Kids play at Seasong Child Care Centre on its opening day on Friday, Sept. 14. Photo: City of Richmond

The YMCA’s four before- and after-school care programs in Richmond are being extended into full-day care, starting April 1, because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The priority for the programs, located at Brighouse, Lord Byng, Anderson, Manoah Steves elementary schools, will be for children of essential service workers, but other students can also attend.

The YMCA’s early-childhood program at Seasong will also focus on essential service workers.

“Many of the YMCA’s programs are not at capacity right now as many families are following the advice of public health,” said YMCA vice-president Cathy Poole, citing Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer of B.C., who is encouraging parents to care for children at home if they can.

The price of YMCA’s school age child care program will be increased to $800 per month due to its full-day expansion, while its essential early year child care program fee will remain the same.

Meanwhile, families who choose to keep their children at home or cannot attend because of COVID-19 will have their spots reserved.

And children who cannot participate because of illness can get a credit to their account.

Families are also required to complete a health declaration form during sign-in and drop-off every day.

For more information visit www.gv.ymca.ca/childcare

For the latest news on COVID-19, visit richmond-news.com/covid-19