April 5, 2022
BGC St. Alban's Club statement
We believe in the need for quality, affordable childcare for all Canadian families. We support the provincial and federal government’s commitment to creating a province-wide early learning and childcare program that is accessible to more families.
The Ontario and Canadian governments have reached an agreement that they say will ensure lower costs and increased access to quality childcare options. The program aims to reduce daycare fees to an average of $10/day by 2025.
The agreement aims to create 86,000 new, high-quality childcare spaces, improve compensation for those working in licensed childcare, and support the recruitment of new early childcare educators as demand is expected to grow. Quality, affordable childcare contributes to strong families and strong communities and gives children more opportunities to thrive. As part of BGC Canada, St. Alban’s continues to urge governments to provide affordable childcare and recreation options for all children and youth.
With our senior executive team and our Board of Directors, we are reviewing the details of the agreement and what opting in would mean for the staff and families at BGC St. Alban’s Club Preschool.
What we know so far:
- Individual childcare centres can opt-in or out of the new program
- The program is available to private, for-profit and not-for-profit licensed centres and licensed home daycares.
- The decision to opt-in or out needs to be made by September 1st, 2022, and if we opt-in, funding will be sent to the centre to reimburse parents for 25% of fees paid from April 1st onwards
- The increased wages for RECEs does not apply to us because we already pay our staff higher wages than the amounts stipulated in the agreement ($18/hour).
- In fact, by opting in, we would need to agree to freeze any daycare staff’s wages that make over $32,000/year for three years. In order to pay and retain staff in a field where opportunities at new centres and schools will grow, we believe that paying a fair wage is essential. The ability to retain well trained, experienced, dedicated staff is one of the main contributors to a quality daycare program for kids and families.
- It is difficult to expect a staff rate in other parts of Ontario to be the same as in Toronto based on cost of living.
- We would need to determine if we can top up the wage over the three year period through other means (i.e., fundraising)
- The effect on staff wages is our primary concern in thinking about opting into this program.
- We do offer spaces for families who qualify for reduced fees under the City of Toronto’s subsidy program. It is our understanding that this program will continue to run even when the new agreement starts, however we would need to confirm before agreeing to participate.
- Historically, the Club’s fee for service revenue has allowed the Club to reinvest in high priority areas (Jane and Finch, Weston-Mount Dennis, Lawrence Heights) and develop much needed BGC programs in those communities. We expect that opting into this agreement will eliminate that opportunity.
We are very optimistic about what this new program might mean for families in low-income communities such as the families we serve in Jane and Finch, Weston-Mount Dennis and Lawrence Heights. While $10/day is a significant cost savings for many Canadian families, it is still out of reach for many families experiencing poverty and barriers to employment. We hope to see how the plan might include fully funded daycare programs for families and communities that need it.
BGC Clubs often work in neighbourhoods that are at greatest risk and we are encouraged by the Ontario government’s commitment to supporting the needs of diverse and underserved populations, including low-income, francophone, Indigenous, Black, other racialized and newcomer communities, as well as vulnerable and special needs children.
The agreement between centres and the province has specific requirements that we are waiting to see and review with our executive team, parents, and board of directors.
Should you have any questions about what this agreement would mean for BGC St. Alban’s Club, please contact:
Chris Foster
Executive Director
Karen Grant
Preschool Manager
Don Stewart
President, Board of Directors
Registration for our Summer 2025 Aquatic Programs opens on Amilia starting Wednesday, April 16 at 9:00 AM! Explore our daily and weekly swimming lessons, plus H2O Camp—a leadership program that includes Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, and Bronze Cross courses.
The Winona Pool has reopened. Our Spring Swim Session begins Monday, April 7.
In the past year, Charitable Gaming has raised over $100 million for Ontario charities! When you play, local charities win! BGC St. Alban's Club is proud to be part of this amazing initiative. Proceeds from charitable gaming directly support our programs and help purchase essential supplies and equipment. We encourage everyone to visit Delta Bingo and Gaming for an entertaining experience, lots of fun, and the chance to support a great cause. Every play benefits local participants and their program experiences.
Sign the kiddos up for a week of fun during March Break! We'll be playing sports, doing crafts, making friends, and having a blast while school is out! Registration opens on January 10 at 9:00am! See registration page.
By participating in our "Handbags for the Holidays" silent auction, you're helping us raise funds for our new rock climbing wall. The auction will run from December 6 at 2:00 PM to December 16 at 2:00 PM. Don't hesitate to place your bids! Items can be collected in person at BGC St. Alban's Club, located at 843 Palmerston Avenue, as shipping is unavailable. Should you require any additional information about the auction items or pick up dates please contact info@stalbansclub.ca Thank you for your continued support!
Thank you for celebrating with us! On November 21st, we gathered with staff and members from the past 75 years for an unforgettable evening. As we shared memories, laughter, and even a few tears, it was a poignant reminder of the connections we've forged over the years. We reflected on the changes we've witnessed and remembered those members of our St. Alban's family who are no longer with us. Together, we raised a glass, enjoyed delicious food, and celebrated the bonds that make our community so special. It was a truly memorable night that brought together generations of St. Alban's history and underscored the deep connection we all share. Please see our photo gallery for a reminder of this beautiful evening.
Join us for our new fitness program for adults! Hi Lo Workout with Yoga Cooldown Tuesdays 7:00pm to 8:00pm November 19 to December 17 (5 classes) Dance Studio Maximum of 10 participants. No fee, but membership and registration are required. This 60 minute class will energize and refresh you at the end of your day. You'll be challenged to move and excite your muscles, followed by a calming yoga sequence to help you drift off to sleep. Allow yourself permission to experience some rejuvenating me-time. For more information or to sign up, get in touch with Anna !
Are you a high school student gearing up for graduation, a mature learner looking for a fresh start, or someone eager to continue your education journey? Join us at BGC St. Alban's Club on Wednesday, November 13th, 2024, for an informative Post-Secondary Fair designed to address your questions and interests and empower your journey toward success! Event Details: BGC St. Alban's Club – Gymnasium 843 Palmerston Ave, Toronto, ON M6G 2R8 Wednesday, November 13th, 2024 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Grade 10, 11, and 12 students and families, mature students, and anyone interested in pursuing post-secondary education This event is designed to connect students and families with valuable resources and information about post-secondary options. You'll have the opportunity to explore various Ontario colleges and universities, including Centennial College , Seneca College , Humber College , and Georgian College . Discover diverse educational pathways and programs that align with your passions, interests, and career aspirations. Interact with college representatives, learn about admission requirements, financial aid opportunities, and campus life, and find the perfect fit for your post-secondary experience. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to jump-start your educational journey! Mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 13th, 2024, and join us at BGC St. Alban's Club for an unforgettable evening of exploration and discovery. See you there!
We are excited to announce our "Reach for Success" fundraising silent auction , where you have the opportunity to win incredible prizes and contribute to a meaningful cause. Our generous partners, Coach and WestJet, have donated fantastic items, including luxurious Coach accessories and roundtrip flights. By participating in this auction, you will not only have the chance to win these amazing prizes, but also help raise funds for our new rock climbing wall at St. Alban's Club. A rock climbing wall will provide children with a fun and engaging activity that promotes physical fitness and fosters essential life skills. With your support, we can offer our community's youth an enriching environment to develop problem-solving abilities, build self-confidence, enhance coordination, and nurture teamwork. The silent auction will run from October 11 at 2:00 PM to October 25 at 2:00 PM . Don't miss your chance to bid on these exciting items and make a positive impact on the lives of our youth. Items can be collected in person at BGC St. Alban's Club, located at 843 Palmerston Avenue. Thank you for your continued support and generosity. Together, we can create a brighter future for the youth in our community. Silent auction bids can be placed here !
Reminisce and celebrate with us at our 75th-anniversary event! November 21 2024 6:00pm-10:00pm in the gym at St. Alban’s 843 Palmerston Avenue, Toronto 19+ Event! Secure Your Spot at Our 75th Anniversary Celebration – Get Your Tickets Today! Don't miss out on the opportunity to join us for a memorable evening as we commemorate our 75th anniversary! Due to capacity limitations, only 100 tickets are available for purchase at this time. Act now to avoid missing out on this unforgettable event. (As of October 3, there are just under 50 tickets left) Ticket prices are currently $25 each, but don't wait too long – prices will increase to $35 on October 11. Tickets are required for admission, and no tickets will be sold at the door. Once you're ready to join the fun, simply click the link to purchase your tickets. Highlights: Catering by Food Dudes Bar with local wine and beer. (Drink tickets can be purchased at the event) Performance by mentalist Bobby Motta Club Tours, sharing of mementos and old photos Time for reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones Let's gather together to relive cherished moments and celebrate the enduring success of our Clubs. We can't wait to celebrate with you! For more information about this event, please visit our event page.
