Rio Tinto’s Iron Ore Company of Canada (IOC) has announced an $800,000 investment over the next two years to expand the Lil Snowflakes daycare in Wabush. This expansion will increase the facility’s capacity to approximately 116 spaces, with 86 designated as full-time spots. Among these, 50 spaces will be reserved for IOC employees, aiming to support workforce retention and provide more families in the region with access to quality childcare.
The funding will facilitate the addition of two new classrooms, improvements in furniture and supplies, enhancements to the facility, and incorporation of Indigenous materials to enrich learning experiences.
Ryan Harnden, Chief Operating Officer at Rio Tinto IOC, stated: “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.”
Regan Antle, Manager of Lil Snowflakes daycare, remarked: “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.”
Daycare management plans to contact parents regarding available spaces based on an existing waitlist.
