LABRADOR CITY, Canada - Rio Tinto's Iron Ore Company of Canada (IOC) is investing $800,000 over two years to support the expansion of the Lil Snowflakes daycare in Wabush. The expansion will increase the daycare's capacity to an estimated 116 spaces, including 86 full-time spots, with 50 spaces designated for IOC employees. These designated spaces will help support local workforce retention while ensuring more families in the region have access to quality childcare.
The investment will also enable the addition of two new classrooms, upgraded furniture and supplies, facility enhancements, and new Indigenous materials to enrich learning experiences.
Rio Tinto IOC Chief Operating Officer Ryan Harnden said: "This investment reflects our commitment to building thriving communities. Access to quality childcare is essential for families in Labrador West, and we are proud to collaborate with our community partners to help address this need in a sustainable way. Expanding childcare options also provides greater flexibility for working parents, reinforcing our position as an employer of choice in the region. IOC remains committed to working with community partners to support long-term solutions for families in the region."
Manager of Lil Snowflakes daycare Regan Antle said: "The expansion of Lil Snowflakes daycare is a transformative step for families in Labrador West. With this support from IOC, we can provide more children with a safe, enriching environment while ensuring long-term sustainability for our centre. This investment will make a real difference for parents, educators, and, most importantly, the children in our care."
Parents will be contacted by daycare management in the coming weeks regarding available spaces, based on the existing waitlist.
