The Niagara Nursery School has launched fundraising efforts for its $2-million expansion project at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Community Centre.

The school is hoping to raise $100,000 through community donations.

A registered charity that has been operating in town for 48 years, the school now has a waitlist of about 140 children. The expansion would allow the school to significantly reduce the numbers on that list.

As well, the school said the larger facility will:

? Provide 10 infant care spots and 15 spaces for toddlers. Currently there are none.

? Let families with children of varying ages remain together at one location.

? Include the addition of three new playgrounds.

“As more families choose to call this beautiful area home, many are faced with the stark reality that childcare options are lacking,” the nursery school said in a media release. 

“(Niagara Nursery School) is excited to launch its fundraising campaign, engaging both community members and partners who wish to build their legacy, support their local community and ensure that the children of NOTL have access to vital early childhood education,” the school said.

Candice Penny, executive director of the school, said she is “very excited for the expansion and what it means for the growing community.”

“To be able to continue to offer quality early childhood education to more children and families in our community is a dream come true,” Penny said.

More information on the expansion and donation options can be found at niagaranurseryschoolexpansion.com. Anyone wishing to donate can do so directly at canadahelps.org/en/charities/niagara-nursery-school.