LABRADOR CITY, Canada – Rio Tinto’s Iron Ore Company (IOC) is investing $800,000 over two years to expand the Lil Snowflakes daycare service in Wabush. This expansion will increase the daycare’s capacity to approximately 116 places, including 86 full-time spots and 50 reserved for IOC employees’ children. These reserved spots aim to retain local workforce while ensuring families in the area have access to quality childcare.
The investment will also fund two new classrooms, improved furniture and supplies, enhanced facilities, and materials on Indigenous culture to enrich learning experiences.
Ryan Harnden, Chief Operating Officer of IOC, stated: “This investment is the reflection of our commitment towards creating 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 meet this need in a sustainable way. Developing diverse childcare services provides more flexibility for working parents which strengthens our position as an employer of choice in the region. Rio Tinto IOC continues to commit to working with community partners to support long-term solutions for families in the region.”
Regan Antle, Director of Lil Snowflakes daycare, commented: “The expansion of Lil Snowflakes childcare service is a transformative step for families in Labrador West. With IOC’s support, we can offer more children a safe and enriching environment while ensuring the long-term sustainability of our center. This investment will make a real difference for parents, educators, and most importantly, the children under our care.”
Parents will receive communication from the daycare management team in the coming weeks regarding available spots based on the existing waiting list.
