Sheshatshiu to receive up to 30 new child care spaces

Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation has been approved for funding to create up to 30 new child care spaces at the Shakastueu Pishum Centre.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador says approximately $658,000 will be allocated to renovations at the existing facility and an expansion of its child care capacity.

The project is funded through the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, a federal-provincial initiative aimed at improving access to affordable child care.

Approved projects are assessed on several criteria, including demand for infant and toddler care, support for parents entering or remaining in the workforce, benefits for families facing barriers to child care and the needs of underserved regions and populations. Centres must also operate on a not-for-profit basis and demonstrate progress toward opening.

The provincial government says it continues to work with other applicants seeking to create or expand child care spaces to ensure they meet licensing requirements. These include staff certifications and background checks, sample menus, proof of insurance and occupancy permits.

The Sheshatshiu expansion adds to more than 470 new child care spaces created across Newfoundland and Labrador since October 2025.

Parents and guardians seeking regulated child care can register through the province's Early Learning Gateway, which connects families with providers through a digital waitlist. Registered families will be notified when child care spaces become available.