Summer Camp

Fundy Shores has invested more than $10,000 to expand local child-care options.

The municipality has approved funding for the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick to support the launch of a licensed summer camp at Fundy Shores Elementary School.

The program will serve children aged five to 12, offering outdoor, creative and active programming, as well as local outings to beaches and trails.

Lisa Mullins-Buchanan, manager of community and program development for Eastern Charlotte County with the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick, said the program will consist of one group of 15 children. She said the organization will use funding provided by the municipality to support staffing and transportation costs for weekly trips.

The summer camp will run from June 22 to Sept. 4.

Mayor Denny Cogswell said the investment will help address child-care needs in the community.

“I guess this is kind of a stepping stone right now,” Cogswell said. “We strongly encourage people to sign up for the program, fill all the seats and hopefully it is a success this summer.”

Cogswell said one of the top priorities identified through community engagement was the need for child care.

The municipality set aside the grant money requested by the YMCA to help meet that need, he said.

Cogswell added the program is a starting point to address demand, but if the need continues, the municipality hopes to expand child-care options through the new community complex Fundy Shores is planning.