The new University of Winnipeg Students Association Day Care is now open. Taking part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony is UWSA President Jason Syvixay (left), Day Care Director Diana Rozos, Manitoba Minister of Family Services & Housing Gord Mackintosh, UWinnipeg President & Vice-Chancellor Lloyd Axworthy and Wolseley MLA Rob Altemeyer. Photo by Kelly Morton / uwinnipeg.ca
WINNIPEG, MB – In an effort to meet the needs of non-traditional students including adult learners, new immigrants with families and Aboriginal students from communities outside the city, The University of Winnipeg Students’ Association, in partnership with The University of Winnipeg, today officially opened its new and expanded day care centre. Located next door to the new McFeetors Hall: Great-West Life Student Residence on the Furby-Langside campus, The University of Winnipeg Students’ Association (UWSA) Day Care will eventually accommodate up to 112 children and is open to UWinnipeg students, staff and the general community.
“Accessible child care can be vital to the success of many of our students, who are often juggling parenthood and jobs along with their studies,” said Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, President and Vice-Chancellor, UWinnipeg. “We are committed to removing barriers and providing supports such as fast-track bursaries so that non-traditional students have an opportunity to pursue their dreams at The University of Winnipeg. The new day care is one more support system we can offer to provide peace of mind for our adult learners.”
“The day care is just one of the many services that the UWSA offers to its membership. We are thrilled to provide this incredibly important service to student parents, who may not otherwise have any viable options to pursue post-secondary education while parenting”, said Jason Syvixay, President of the UWSA. Kelly Ross, Vice President Student Services of the UWSA continues, “we are incredibly proud of our daycare staff. Without their steadfast commitment to high-quality service, the UWSA daycare would not be where it is today – one of the most reputable child care facilities in Manitoba”.
The new 10,000 square foot facility is constructed to LEED Silver Standard and will include a green, natural outdoor play area for children.
“This child care centre will provide a safe and stimulating environment for about 112 children,” said the Honourable Gord Mackintosh, Minister of Family Services and Housing. “University students and families in nearby communities will be able to further their education or seek meaningful employment while knowing their children are being well-cared for in a modern facility.”
The UWSA Day Care is used as a practicum site for training students in Early Childhood programs from St. Boniface College, Red River College and UWinnipeg students enrolled in Education, Psychology and Developmental Studies.
It cost just under $2.5 million, funded by a Government of Manitoba grant ($400,000), UWSA ($1.1 million) and the University ($1.1 million).
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Diane Poulin, Communications Officer, The University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7135, E: d.poulin@uwinnipeg.ca
