By Times Chronicle Staff
Oliver will be getting a new accessible playground as part of provincial funding for 26 school district playgrounds across the province each receiving $195,000.
The new playground will be located at Oliver Elementary School and like all of the playgrounds being funded will be designed to be accessible for children of all abilities.
“Playgrounds are essential for helping our kids grow, interact, and stay active,” says Roly Russell, New Democrat MLA for Boundary-Similkameen. “I’m thrilled that Oliver Elementary is a part of our government’s accessible playground funding, ensuring children in our community have a safe and accessible place to play.”
“Playgrounds enhance our kids’ well-being,” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care. “These are spaces where children can truly be themselves, where they express their joy, and learn valuable social skills.”
Last year’s provincial investment of $5 million supported 25 new school playgrounds – 20 are complete, while the remaining are nearly ready.
Since 2018, the government has supported students and families, allocating $40 million toward new playgrounds at 282 schools, benefiting more than 70,000 students.
Every school district has received at least one playground since the program started in 2018. Some schools received funding for multiple playgrounds for the communities to enjoy.
“The continued investment in new, accessible playgrounds provides children, staff and community members safe, inclusive and welcoming outdoor spaces to gather and connect. This, in turn, helps create happy and healthier communities,” commented Laura Ward, president, BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils.
