The Impact of Quality Child Care

Originally from the Philippines, Avegail De Vera knows how challenging it can be to find the right support for her family. “When my daughter started at the Y’s child care program, it was a huge relief,” she shares. “She’s made friends, developed new skills, and gained so much confidence. Knowing she’s in a safe, nurturing environment gives me peace of mind every day.”

But not every family in Downtown Winnipeg has access to quality child care. The city faces a critical shortage of licensed spaces, leaving parents struggling to find reliable, affordable options. The demand far outweighs supply, making it harder for families to thrive and for the downtown core to attract and retain young families.

The Heart of the City Campaign is poised to address this growing need by adding 40 new infant and preschool spaces at the Downtown Y. These additional spaces will give more families access to the high-quality care that helps children grow while making Downtown Winnipeg a more family-friendly place to live and work.

For working parents like Avegail, the Y’s child care programs are about more than just convenience—they’re about opportunity. “The Y has given my daughter so many opportunities to grow,” Avegail says. “She loves the activities, the connections she’s made, and the new skills she’s learning every day. For me, the Y is more than just child care—it’s like an extended family.”

The Y’s child care approach emphasizes a holistic focus on each child’s development. Through creative play, structured activities, and a nurturing environment, the program helps children build confidence, social skills, and a lifelong love of learning. “Our programs provide so much more than basic care,” explains Richard Lilke, Director of Creative Play at the Downtown Y. “We create a foundation for children to thrive, not just in school, but in life.”

Avegail often marvels at how much her daughter has grown since joining the program. “She’s blossomed in so many ways,” she says. “Knowing she’s cared for in a safe, supportive environment allows me to focus on my responsibilities and be there for my family.”

With the planned expansion of the Downtown Y’s child care services through the Heart of the City Campaign, more families will have access to this life-changing support. 

By addressing the critical shortage of licensed spaces, the Y is ensuring that more children and parents in Downtown Winnipeg can thrive. You can help by donating to support the campaign.