Editor,
It has been a full year since we first sounded the alarm about the potential closure of StrongStart programs in Surrey. At that time, the Surrey District Parent Advisory Council (Surrey DPAC), along with the Surrey Teachers’ Association and CUPE 728 (who represents the support workers in Surrey School District) called on both the B.C. Ministry of Education and Child Care and the Ministry of Children and Family Development to fully fund StrongStart to reflect the explosive growth in Surrey and the rising costs of operating these programs.
And now, a year later, we are faced with more potential closures. Closing StrongStart centres, or the program altogether, is not just about losing a program for preschoolers — this is a devastating blow to families, caregivers and children who rely on these centres as essential hubs for connection, support and early intervention.
StrongStart is not a “nice to have.” It is an essential lifeline for our youngest learners and their families.
StrongStart offers equitable, community-based early learning and is often the first point of contact for families — especially newcomers, those navigating developmental delays or caregivers seeking connection. These inclusive, trusted spaces foster early language and social development while connecting families to crucial supports before challenges escalate. That early support doesn’t just change lives — it saves the system money and eases pressure on schools already stretched to the limit.
The Ministry of Education and Child Care was made aware of these concerns last year. They insisted that Surrey School District keep StrongStart sites open and committed to revisit funding in this year’s budget.
So what has changed? Nothing — except access has worsened. Surrey families are already dealing with two StrongStart site closures and reduced access, with many sites now limiting families to just two visits per week due to high demand and constrained resources.
The ministry’s silence, delay, and inaction speaks volumes about prioritizing the needs of children in Surrey.
Surrey is the fastest-growing district in the province. Instead of expanding access, we are watching programs shrink. StrongStart is not expendable. It is a core service that promotes equity, inclusion and early intervention.
We call on the ministry — again — to act. Fund StrongStart. Keep your promise. Our children cannot afford to wait another year.
Anne Whitmore, president, Surrey District Parent Advisory Council
