OUTLOOK - The province announced last week that it will invest $3.75 million on an annual basis to deliver a new program in order to help fund school playground equipment in communities throughout Saskatchewan.
The new formula will see up to $50,000 in matched funding become available for schools to build a new playground or update existing equipment.
"Our government recognizes that every child deserves a place to play," Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Alana Ross said in a media release. "Parent groups are working hard alongside local school councils to build safe, accessible playgrounds for their kids. This funding will help make their job a little easier, while ensuring projects are completed sooner."
In partnership with the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA), the School Playground Equipment Grant program is expected to start accepting applications this coming fall.
"We are proud to expand our partnership with the Government of Saskatchewan in the delivery of the School Playground Equipment Grant program," Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association President Darcy McLeod said in the media release. "Playgrounds are crucial to child development and are foundational pieces of community infrastructure that support our health and wellbeing."
One of those projects that will be seeking funding is Outlook Elementary School's new playground, which at more than 20 years old, is in dire need of replacing. A previous article by this reporter, with insight by principal Darla Thorstad, shared that there is concern for possible injuries as it relates to the state of the existing equipment, so the need to update OES's playground is seen as crucial.
The school was waiting for the application process to open up at the time of this article, having paid attention to the program since it was first announced in the Throne Speech.
The criteria and guidelines will be announced closer to the application process, after engagement with stakeholders. It's estimated that roughly 75 projects will receive support each year.
Further details, including the specific date that applications open along with the program criteria will be announced once finalized in collaboration with SPRA.
