SvN is transforming Augustine United Church into Augustine Centre, a catalyst for renewal in the heart of Osborne Village, Winnipeg. In addition to The S.P.L.A.S.H. Child Care Centre, Augustine Centre will feature renovated space for the NAfro Dance Centre, western Canada’s only African contemporary dance company; refreshed space to accommodate the daily 180 attendees and volunteers at the Oak Table Inc. kitchen; and a renovated Sanctuary and Performing Arts Centre modeled after the Trinity St. Paul’s Centre for Faith, Justice and the Arts in Toronto. Joe Bova and SvN have jointly been preparing materials, making presentations and assisting with the fundraising efforts (both public and private).

The Manitoba Government has announced the creation of up to 780 new licensed early learning and child-care spaces, supported by $22.8 million through the Canada–Manitoba Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. The S.P.L.A.S.H. Child Care Centre at the Augustine Centre will now be able to move forward with the proposed renovations, resulting in 24 new infant and 64 new preschool spaces, and new outdoor play space using natural and sustainable materials, where children and parents can garden together, learn about food security and environmental practices.

“We are extremely pleased with this announcement as we will be part of a remarkable effort to redevelop a long-standing community location so that it can be a site that offers much-needed quality early learning and child-care services,” said Tara Richliwski, assistant director, S.P.L.A.S.H. Child Care Inc. & Splash Child Enrichment Centre.