Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre manager Jan Gilchrist and Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley join four excited youngsters at the Cranbourne North centre.THREE local children’s services have received funding from the State Government.
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, Hampton Park Care Group and Coral Drive Kindergarten will share in more than $175,000 to make major building improvements.
Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley visited the Merinda Park Centre last month to make the announcement.
“This funding will ensure that families continue to have access to the highest quality learning facilities close to home,” Ms Graley said.
More than $66,000 will be divvied up among another 15 children’s services throughout the City of Casey.
Ms Graley said the money would be used for refurbishments such as shade structures, water tanks, air conditioning, fencing, playground equipment, and educational resources.
“With more than 40 new families moving in to this area each week, combined with a once-in-a-generation baby boom across the state, the government recognises that we must continue to invest strongly in early childhood services,” she said.
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre will spend $100,000 to extend the child care room.
Hampton Park Care Group will receive $50,000 to replace playground equipment.
And Coral Drive Kindergarten will receive $27,500 to improve the outdoor learning environment.
Merinda Park manager Jan Gilchrist said she was delighted with the funding.
“This extension will allow more children and parents to be accommodated in our programs,” she said.
“We will be able to expand our occasional care program from 15 to around 25 children, and we will have the capacity to increase both our before and after school care, and our vacation care program,” Ms Gilchrist said.
