The Manitoba government announced today they have committed $3 million through their Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities Play Structure Fund to revamping playgrounds across the province, and many of the structures receiving the funds are right here in WestMan.
According to Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Tracy Schmidt, the funds will support 43 playgrounds across Manitoba, including 38 new playground projects. The funds will work alongside those already coming from existing school project budgets.
“Every child deserves a safe and welcoming place to play, learn and connect with classmates,” said Schmidt. “This new fund will help ensure schools and communities across Manitoba have access to quality playgrounds, while easing the financial burden that has too often fallen on parents and volunteers. By investing in playgrounds, we are investing in healthy kids, stronger communities and better opportunities for children to be active and thrive.”
In a release, the province revealed Hartney School will be getting $75,000 for their playground, while MacGregor Elementary would receive $100,000. Playgrounds in Ste Rose, McCreary, and Birtle are also receiving funding.
Under the new program, introduced in the most recent budget, the Manitoba government provides funding for up to 75 per cent of eligible project costs to a maximum of $100,000 per project.
