Temporary Daycare at the Old Barn

The Old Barn Community Centre has transformed some of its space into a temporary, full-day daycare, which opened this week. This childcare service is for those who need it most, with priority given to children whose parents perform essential services during the pandemic. Operated by the YMCA, the daycare is open Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The YMCA considers the health and well-being of children, families and staff as a top priority. From the onset of COVID-19 in our province, the YMCA has been committed to continuing to provide child care to families as long it was feasible and aligned with the recommendations of the government agencies.

As its child care programs continue to operate, the YMCA is carrying out the following enhanced health measures in compliance with public health:

• If a child or staff has had symptoms recently, such as fever, sore throat, coughing, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, they must self-isolate for 10 days from the onset of the symptoms before returning to child care;
• Health screenings are being carried out and all families are asked to complete a Health Declaration Form at drop-off/sign-in each day. This is done at the main entrance thereby restricting access by parents to the program space;
• If anyone develops symptoms or has a fever during a program, they will be asked to self-isolate for 10 days before returning to the YMCA program;
• Regular hand washing for children and staff is taking place throughout the day; and
• Enhanced cleaning and sanitizing of high-touch surfaces is completed at regular intervals.

The temporary YMCA daycare will be open until public school resumes or there is a provincial directive to close all daycare services.

The UNA is pleased to be able to support our community and its residents in as many ways as we can during these extraordinary times.

To apply for the YMCA Essential Child Care program, please email: essentialchildcare@gv.ymca.ca.