For over 40 years, families in the Bow Valley have sent their kids to the Banff Child Care Centre. A cornerstone of early childhood education in the community, the Centre welcomes children 12 months through kindergarten and was one of the first childcare programs accredited by the province of Alberta—and families love it.

Most recently, the new federal-provincial child care agreement has made a substantial difference in the financial situation of families in Banff. In 2021, families with one child over 3 years of age in care had to pay $1075 each month. However, once the $10 per day program was launched in 2022, this was reduced to $450 a month.

“Government funding is a great support to families and we hear everyday how its making a big difference. The impact on the business has been a challenge. With cost of living increasing, child care centres now need to be creative and source other revenue opportunities to be successful in providing a high level of child care. Donations and fundraising are now an increasingly important part of the Centre’s operating model,” said Lindsay Jentzel, Executive Director at the Banff Child Care Centre.

Financial support from the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation is helping fill the gap. A recent donation of $15,000 gives the Banff Child Care Centre the additional funding they need to offer their top-tier services and ensure the kids and families continue to have an enriching and fun educational experience.

“The Banff Child Care Centre offers a remarkable, incredibly important service that local families rely on,” said Cathy Geisler, Executive Director of the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation. “The Foundation is pleased to continue to support the Centre and the essential work they do for the community.”

Governed by a volunteer Board, the Centre works closely with parents, the community, and Town of Banff to ensure they have the resources they need. Regular fundraising events support many of the Centre’s activities and initiatives, allowing the team to keep the kids active, engaged, and energized.

“We are so appreciative and grateful of the support we receive from the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.  We value their consideration and acknowledgment of our efforts to support families within our community.  Together, with their partnership, we are better able to meet the needs of the children and provide fun learning opportunities in a play rich environment,” Jetnzel says.

With 48 kids currently enrolled, Jentzel and her team continue to find creative ways to provide the high quality of services they are known for.

Learn more about how the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation continues to support a more active, vibrant, and happy community.

Learn more about Banff Child Care Centre