August 24, 2022
Application deadline extended to November 1 2022.

As you may have read, the government is extending the deadline for childcare centres to apply for the Canada Wide Early Learning and Child Care agreement (CWELCC) to November 1 2022.
The Ministry of Education has not released the guidelines for CWELCC for 2023 and, while we are committed to keeping fees as low as possible for families, the decision to opt-in for 2023 is one that can only be made once more information is available. We must review the contract, once available, and ensure the preschool is financially viable under the new guidelines.
Should the Board of Directors, after reviewing all available information and consulting with parents and other stakeholders, make the decision to apply to Toronto Children’s Services (TCS) to opt-in to the CWELCC program for the 2022 year, an agreement would need to be executed within 30 days of the application and parents would receive rebates within 20 days of our centre receiving the funding. Eligible children are those who are 5 years and under and those who turned 6 years old on or before June 30th, 2022. The funds will be sent to us from the government, and will then be used to refund eligible parents, for 25% of fees paid retro active to April 1st, 2022 for all full fee children. Families who are in receipt of subsidy will be notified as to the refund they are entitled to.
As highlighted in our statement in April, some of our key considerations in reviewing the guidelines are:
- Our ability to retain well trained, experienced, dedicated staff, in order to offer a quality, consistent daycare program for kids and families.
- We need to be assured that we can offer our staff a fair, living wage, which includes opportunities for raises based on years of service and performance.
- Our ability of offer spaces for families who qualify for reduced fees under the City of Toronto’s subsidy program.
- How opting in or out might affect other government funding we currently receive.
- The flexibility to offer enhanced activities such as swimming, field trips, music and art at a fee that all or most families can accommodate.
- The ability to employ additional support and resource staff to provide support for children with special needs.
- The ability to continue to reinvest in high priority areas (Jane and Finch, Weston-Mount Dennis, Lawrence Heights) and develop much needed BGC programs in these communities.
We know how impactful these decisions are for you and your family, and we will be sending updates as we have them. We welcome feedback and input from the parents and community members at an upcoming feedback session in October (details to follow).
We thank all of you for your patience during this time of transition.

Experience being a professional recording artist and producer in this 10 week program. Participants will meet once a week at the St. Alban’s recording studio to create, record and release their own beats, songs and creations. Working in a group, participants will find their collective voice and creativity by building beats, songs and video projects. No prior musical experience is necessary! Ages 8 to 12 Thursdays 4-5 p.m. October 9 to December 11 10 Sessions total Limited Spaces Cost: $75 Register today!

Returning for the fifth year, Youth of the Year is BGC Canada’s national initiative to recognize and celebrate exceptional youth who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, service, and achievements within their communities. Youth of the Year encourages young people to become active role models and a voice for young people across Canada. This year, five youth receive post-secondary scholarships, laptops, prize packages, and development and media training. Ruben has been involved with BGC St. Alban’s Club (at our Weston Mount Dennis site) for 10 years as a Club member, volunteer, and Club staff. He describes his Club experience as transformative, helping him build life skills like adaptability, teamwork, self-confidence, and leadership. As a youth council member at his own Club, attending BGC Canada’s 2023 National Youth Forum was a memorable experience that shaped how he wants to show up for his community. Outside of the Club, Ruben is a leader in his school community, stays grounded in his values, and always finds ways to uplift others. Ruben is passionate about being a voice for young people who want to make an impact. As Youth of the Year, he’s ready to show young people across Canada the power of youth-led change.

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.

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.