Daycare groundbreaking hopes to spark more centres across Oxford

Alex Hunt, Post Contributor

The growing demand for childcare in Oxford County took a promising step forward as construction began on a new EYES daycare.

Shovels hit the ground last Friday in Tillsonburg as EYES Child Care and 360 Developments Group began construction on a new EYES daycare on 361 Quarter Line Road. Slated to open in late fall, the president of 360 Developments Group hopes this is just the beginning of something greater.

“It’s definitely a feeling of fulfillment and achievement in achieving this vision,” said Cedric Tomico, president and chief executive officer of 360 Developments Group. “Through this partnership that we have created with EYES Child Care; there is a hope that we will build more daycares throughout the county.”

Founded in 1999, the EYES Child Care uses the philosophy that: “We believe that every child is unique and will grow at their own pace. EYES’ teachers spend time nurturing children’s strengths and encouraging them to reach new heights. EYES’ goal is to educate and empower children while focusing on developing emotional intelligence and values along with social, physical, cognitive and intellectual skills.”

Several EYES Child Care officials were in attendance during the groundbreaking last Friday on 361 Quarter Line Road. Among the attended officials were, Naila Saeed, chief executive officer of EYES Child Care, Vikram Singh, Chief operating officer, and Arshad Siddiqui, Architect at EYES Child Care.

The eventual 5,5000 square-foot facility will house 80-plus spots. It will be built on the west side of Quarter Line Road, south of South Ridge Public School. The project was kick started after a letter of intent was signed between EYES Child Care of Brampton and 360 Developments Group.

“The new daycare facility at 361 will complement the already existing spaces,” said Mayor Deb Gilvesy. “As the town continues to grow, jobs it is imperative to have exceptional care available to working families where our youngest residents can thrive. We would like to congratulate all those involved in making this much needed project come to fruition.”

Tomico said that as the construction process begins, the Ministry of Education will play a key role throughout the development phase. The ministry will ensure all rooms are measured with the correct length and height qualifications, along with partaking in the various inspections required before the property's grand opening.

“This is a start to addressing the need, but it’s just that, a start,” said Tomico. “We need to do more, not just from my perspective but from the community’s as well. The demand isn’t going away, and we need more people to get involved.”

Tomico said that the community members have already been inquiring about job opportunities and waitlists, which he said is a sign of how urgently childcare spaces are needed. With construction now underway, both partners say they are committed to building a long-term solution, one that could serve as a model for future centres across Oxford County.