Compass Early Learning & Care is set to address a growing need for licensed child care in Kirkfield, with a new program slated to open in 2025.
The organization recently acquired the property at 1047 Portage Road, formerly St. John Catholic Elementary School, from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough, and plans to launch a child care center catering to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
With renovations scheduled to begin soon and a Request for Proposals process set for this fall, Compass ELC’s expansion will provide 49 child care spaces, including 10 for infants (0-18 months), 15 for toddlers (18-30 months), and 24 for preschoolers (30 months to 6 years).
Partnering with the City of Kawartha Lakes, Compass ELC aims to enhance accessibility to affordable, high-quality early learning and care. “We are so fortunate to have such strong and capable partners…the children will receive the highest quality and excellent care while in the hands of the Compass family,” said Janine Mitchell, Manager of Human Services, during the announcement.
Jill Wickins, Compass ELC’s Organizational Link for Operations, credited the success of the project to collaboration with the City of Kawartha Lakes. “We couldn’t have done it without the support from our Community Partners, such as the wonderful Children Services team and other City staff,” Wickins shared.
A key driver behind the project was Cheyenne Weatherall, a Kirkfield resident and Compass ELC team member, who identified the need for child care in the community when she noticed the property was for sale. The new center will participate in the Canada-Wide Early Learning & Child Care $10-a-day child care plan, ensuring affordable access for local families.
“We believe that all communities deserve access to high-quality, affordable early learning and care…we are excited to expand access to Kirkfield and the surrounding communities,” said Ashley Collins, Co-CEO of Compass ELC.
The child care program is anticipated to make a significant impact on the community, helping meet the needs of young families in the Kirkfield area and beyond.
