The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce is expanding its licensed School Age programs at Port Elgin-Saugeen Central School and Northport Elementary School, increasing capacity for the 2026–2027 school year in response to growing demand from families in the Saugeen Shores community.
As more families rely on consistent before and after school care to support their work schedules and daily routines, demand for School Age programming has continued to rise across the region. In partnership with Bluewater District School Board, the YMCA is increasing capacity at both locations—adding 41 new spaces at Northport and 41 new spaces at Port Elgin-Saugeen Central—to help more families access high-quality, school-based care.
“This expansion reflects what we’re hearing from families in our community,” said Cyndy Jefferson, Director of Child Care at the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce. “We know that access to consistent, dependable care is essential for families balancing work and home life, and we’re committed to growing our programs in a way that supports both children and caregivers.”
YMCA School Age programs are designed to provide more than just care—they offer a safe, inclusive environment where children can build friendships, develop confidence, and feel a strong sense of belonging. Through the YMCA’s A Place to Connect™ curriculum, children participate in play-based experiences that support their physical, social, and emotional development while encouraging leadership, creativity, and problem-solving.
“Our programs are built around the idea that children learn best through play, connection, and positive relationships,” added Jefferson. “By expanding our capacity, we’re not only creating more spaces—we’re creating more opportunities for children to grow, explore, and thrive beyond the classroom.”
The expansion is part of the YMCA’s broader commitment to responding to evolving community needs and ensuring families have access to high‑quality, licensed child care.
The organization continues to work closely with local partners and school boards to support the evolving needs of families in our community.
“We are excited about the improvements to extended day learning for our students in the Saugeen Shores area through additional spaces at two of our schools to better support the growing needs of families,” said Keith Lefebvre, Superintendent of Education for Bluewater District School Board. “Thank you to the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce for their continued partnership in providing and expanding upon essential services that further promote learning and growth opportunities for young children.”
In addition to expanding spaces, the YMCA is actively recruiting educators to support its growing programs. As the largest child care employer in Grey Bruce, the YMCA offers rewarding career opportunities with competitive wages and benefits, while providing a supportive environment where educators can develop professionally and make a meaningful impact in their community.
Families interested in registering for School Age programs are encouraged to apply through the OneList system. Spaces will be offered based on registration order, and families will be contacted directly by YMCA staff when spaces become available.
More information about YMCA School Age programs across Grey and Bruce County is available at ymcaowensound.on.ca/school-age-program.
Individuals interested in joining the YMCA’s School Age team can view current openings and apply at ymcaowensound.on.ca/join-our-team.
