In 2019, the region received a $50,000 grant from the provincial Community Child Care Planning Program through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) to develop a comprehensive study of current and future childcare needs. The project involved conducting research and analysis, as well as delivering stakeholder and community engagements with parents/guardians, childcare providers, Early Childhood Educators and local leaders across the qathet Regional District. The final report reflects what gaps exists with childcare needs today and a framework to achieve future success over the next 10 years.

On March 12, 2020, City staff and consultants presented the Region-wide Childcare Planning Project report to the qathet Regional District Committee of the Whole. On March 17, 2020, City staff and consultants presented the report to Mayor and Council at the City of Powell River's Committee of the Whole. Both the city and regional district are determining the next steps to move forward with the direction and implementation of the childcare action plan.

For the project summary, visit: Region-wide Childcare Planning Project Summary

For the project full report, visit: Region-wide Childcare Planning Project Report

Focus Group Summary

Westview/Grief Point Focus Group Summary

North of Town Focus Group Summary

South of Town Focus Group Summary

Lasqueti Focus Group Summary

Texada Focus Group Summary

Are you looking for childcare?

The Government of BC is responsible for the licensing and monitoring of childcare facilities in the province. Please refer to the Child Care Map for information on the different types of childcare programs and where licensed childcare facilities can be found in qathet Regional District (qRD). Visit: Find Childcare in BC

The province has also published a guide to assist parents in selecting and monitoring childcare. Visit: Parents’ Guide to Selecting and Monitoring Childcare in BC

See the complete list of childcare providers in the qRD (last updated, July 16, 2020):

Childcare Resources

Childcare BC is the provincial government’s childcare web portal. It includes information on the different types of childcare programs including, finding and choosing childcare, funding opportunities, opening or running childcare programs, support for childcare providers, and announcements of COVID-19 related updates.

The Early Childhood Educators of BC represents the early childhood care and education profession throughout the province, providing professional development opportunities, training, and resources for early childhood educators across the province and informing the broader community.

Family Friendly Powell River is a local Powell river project that provides a list of agencies, service providers, family friendly businesses/clubs, and general information that can assist you in bringing up your children. This project is managed by the Powell River Child, Youth & Family Services Society and any inquiries can be directed on their website.

Are you looking to learn more about Early Years Education?

For 2021, Vancouver Island University offers Early Years Education and Care Program in Powell River Campus for those that express interest in a career in early years. With two streams offered, you can help support the next early years educators in Powell River:

Early Childhood Education and Care Certificate

Early Childhood Education and Care Certificate - Special Needs Educator Designation

Please check the Vancouver Island University website for more information.