Families in South Vancouver’s West Fraserlands neighbourhood are celebrating the opening of Salmon Stone Childcare--a purpose-built, 49-space facility for children aged 0 to 5 years.

The City of Vancouver contributed $10.7 million to the project and the Province of B.C. contributed an additional $6.2 million.

“The City is making considerable progress expanding childcare across Vancouver,” said Mayor Ken Sim. “Salmon Stone Childcare will be a valued resource for South Vancouver families for generations to come, supporting parents, strengthening the West Fraserlands neighbourhood and helping ensure this vibrant and growing community continues to thrive.”

Located at 3010 East Kent Avenue South, the 11,000-square-foot facility includes an outdoor enclosed playground, dedicated nap rooms and flexible multi-purpose program space. Following a competitive process, the City selected South Vancouver Neighbourhood House to operate the childcare facility on a non-profit basis. 

The building also houses public washrooms, operated by the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation, enhancing community recreation opportunities at Riverfront Park.

Continued expansion of childcare in Vancouver

The opening of Salmon Stone Childcare is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to support childcare expansion across Vancouver. Since City Council’s 2022 adoption of Making Strides: Vancouver’s 10-year Childcare Strategy, more than 2,000 new City-facilitated childcare spaces have opened across the City.

Affordable, high quality childcare is vital to families, communities and Vancouver’s workforce. It supports gender equity and provides children with a strong foundation to learn, grow, and thrive. While new spaces are helping to meet demand, a shortage remains, and the City continues to work with partners and senior governments to expand access to childcare across Vancouver.

“High-quality, affordable, and reliable childcare has been a game changer for families and B.C.’s economy,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care.