A Guildford elementary school will be getting a new playground, one that's meant to be inclusive, thanks to provincial funding.
A.H.P. Matthew Elementary is one of 25 schools from different school districts across B.C. receiving $200,000 in funding from the Ministry of Infrastructure for a new, accessibly playground.
"Creating safe, accessible spaces for children to play is crucial for our communities," Minister of Infrastructure Bowinn Ma said in a press release.
"Access to play shouldn't depend on parents' ability to fundraise for these facilities. This investment goes beyond building new playgrounds - it's about fostering stronger, healthier neighbourhoods where families can connect and children can stay active regardless of their families' ability to pay."
Typically, schools and Parent Advisory Councils raise money through fundraisers to raise enough money for new playgrounds or receive donor money. But for some schools, especially those in more impoverished areas, fundraising doesn't turn out to be as fruitful.
"Playgrounds are more than just places to play, they are spaces where children make friends, build confidence and create memories," said Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care.
"The new playgrounds we are announcing today will provide communities throughout B.C. with safe, accessible and inclusive spaces for kids and families to enjoy for years to come."
Since 2018, the B.C. government has funded at least one playground for each school district, the press release states.
"Playgrounds are essential to schools and neighbourhoods as they offer safe, inclusive spaces where all children can play and connect," said Laura Ward, president of the BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils.
