Students across Alberta may be celebrating the week-long extension of their winter break, but that extension has many local parents scrambling to find childcare as they head back to work.

On December 30; just four days before the scheduled return to classes, Provincial leaders announced a delay of schools reopening amid the rapidly spreading Omicron variant.

As local parents navigate yet another curveball brought forth by the pandemic, a group of Cochrane volunteers are hoping to ease some of the burden associated with the cost of childcare.

Cochrane resident, Paul Singh is among the volunteers.

"Some families are already going through rough times," explains Singh. "We thought, how can we do something to help offset some of the costs?"

The volunteer group is holding a bottle drive this afternoon (Tuesday, January 4) and Singh says that they are hoping to raise enough funds to help about 10 local families.

They have set a fundraising goal of $500, Singh acknowledges that childcare is expensive but he's hopeful that any amount will help alleviate of some the financial strain.

"Fifty dollars isn't a big amount -- but it will help," explains Singh.

The group is currently accepting nominations. If you know a family that could use a little financial boost to help with childcare this week, you can email Singh directly at: palwinder1421@gmail.com or call him at (403) 608-1615.

If you have any bottles you'd like to donate to this fundraising initiative you can also call or email to make the necessary arrangements. Singh says they will be making their rounds to pick up bottles between noon and 3 p.m. on Tuesday, January 4.