Jackie Knough highlights a concerning trend where the rising cost of living is preventing many parents from re-entering the workforce due to a lack of available child-care spaces in Thunder Bay, Ont. As the executive director of Our Kids Count, a local grassroots organization, she witnesses firsthand the impact of this affordability crisis.
“Our Kids Count serves families in financial need on the city’s south side. This summer, the organization introduced 26 licensed child-care spots at 704 McKenzie St., relocating their community kitchen program,” stated Knough.
The initiative began when the former Circle K at 735 Simpson St. closed down, followed by the adjacent property going up for sale, offering ample green space. Knough elaborated, “One project led to another, and now we find ourselves expanding our programs side by side down the block.”
On Saturday, Our Kids Count launched its Building Block capital campaign, aiming to raise $2.7 million to transform McKenzie and Simpson streets into a hub for essential services. Knough expressed excitement over the opportunity to provide vital programs like food security, child care, walk-in counseling, and the Big Brothers Big Sisters program within this block.
The campaign will facilitate the redevelopment of 735 Simpson St. into a community hub, renovations at 704 McKenzie St. for an upgraded child care center, the transformation of 708 McKenzie St. into a training space, and the establishment of a new outdoor play area for the child care center.
Despite receiving funding from the provincial government and other sources, Our Kids Count still needs to raise over $1 million to achieve its goal. Thunder Bay—Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland emphasized the importance of supporting the creation of this family-centered hub to provide essential programs for local families, children, and youth.
Councillor Brian Hamilton praised the expansion of Our Kids Count, stating that it will significantly benefit the neighborhood. He noted the positive trajectory of the area and the collaborative efforts of organizations like Evergreen A United Neighbourhood and NorWest Community Health Centres in addressing systemic issues through partnerships.
Knough encouraged community involvement, including volunteer support for renovations. The organization aims to begin work on the community hub soon, with a tentative opening date set for April 2026. Construction at the training facility will follow afterward to ensure completion within the year.
