Despite somewhat dreary weather, a barbecue July 11 was a resounding success. Medstead Hometown Grocery donated resources allowing for all the funds raised to go to the cause. The fundrasing for the playground project, organized by Nicole Seidle, has been going for roughly one month. During this span, donations have rolled in from individuals and businesses as well as solid support for a 50/50 draw, whose tickets have been on sale since the beginning of July and closed July 15.
The barbecue sold 93 plates and raised a total of $1,613 towards the project. Clearly, many patrons of the event also made donations to facilitate the playground upgrade. The equipment itself is $2,600, being the goal of the fundraiser. Sold by Costco, the equipment will accommodate the children of this and surrounding communities safely. The current playground, despite maintenance and repair done by the village, has aged significantly, partly due to wooden material and wear and tear due to misuse of the equipment. During 2017 year, repairs and small-scale upgrades were conducted, though, same were broken quickly due to abuse of the equipment.
Statistically speaking, according to the Canadian Public Health Association, seven per cent of children鈥檚鈥� admissions to hospitals are due to falls on playgrounds. Given that falls make up 44 per cent of reasons children are admitted to hospitals, parks become a source of concern for general safety. Such things also serve as a reminder the safety indications of the equipment ought to be heeded, not just for the sake of the longevity of the equipment, but for public welfare.
When personal security is taken into consideration, the positive ramifications of playgrounds come into better focus. According to Saskatchewan Prevention, 鈥淧lay allows children to develop physically by improving balance, co-ordinating movements and increasing physical endurance.鈥�
The same source notes that play also lets children develop co-operation skills and gain the opportunity to create peer relationships.
Seidle notes that roughly $2,000 have been raised without factoring in the 50/50 draw, which is projected to bring in roughly $1,100. Seidle states there is a committee for this project, though she is effectively the sole member. Mentioning that many have put in volunteer hours towards the project, Seidle also notes this has taken quite a bit of dedication, herself putting in at least a couple hours of work daily.
As to excess funds received for the project, Seidle comments the first goal is to get the equipment to Medstead. Affirming that once the funds are in hand, the upgrades ought to come to fruition shortly thereafter and certainly by the close of the summer season. After the execution of the original mission of park upgrades, Seidle notes further goals include planting trees, adding seating and perhaps a gazebo. Though the fundraiser has been completed, Seidle notes donations are still welcome and will be put towards to park maintenance and potential upgrades in the future.
