Accessible Playground Project Receives Investment

Friday, November 2, 2018

Pineridge Elementary School’s Parent Advisory Council and the Prince Rupert Port Authority have partnered up to provide new playground equipment that ensures all children and families are able to enjoy the fun. The project is also being supported by other community partners that recognized the need and opportunity for an inclusive playground, including Ridley Terminals Inc., DP World, Prince Rupert Grain, Pinnacle Renewable Energy, and School District 52.

Pineridge’s Accessible Playground Project includes an interactive play space that features tactile and sensory exploration equipment for people with mobility issues. In addition to Pineridge students, the playground is actively used by the Strong Start program, various daycare programs, and youth from all around the community. The Prince Rupert Port Authority’s Community Investment Fund was used to match the funds raised by the PAC for the purchase and installation of the equipment.

The Pineridge Parent Advisory Council has been active for over 35 years, filling an important role in facilitating parent participation in the school’s programs and activities. In addition to raising funds for school equipment, educational material, new technology, and student programs such as the hot lunch program, they have also contributed to the community through donations to organizations such as Acropolis Manor and the food bank.

The Port of Prince Rupert invested $37,500 into the project through its Community Investment Fund. The Accessible Playground Project represents the 66th community project supported by the Fund.

“Youth and accessibility are a strong fit for the Port’s Community Investment Fund,” said Krista Ediger, Community Relations Associate for the Port of Prince Rupert. “Creating an accessible play space for children in the community is an important undertaking and something that we are pleased to support. By providing an opportunity for every child to engage in recreation and socialize with other children, the Pineridge Parent Advisory Council and the community partners who have supported this project can take pride in their contributions.”

“We are so thankful for the support we have received from the Port, our business community, generous residents and of course the school families that fundraised for this project,” says Julie Slocombe, Pineridge PAC member. “We set a goal to enhance our school’s playground by adding new equipment that would encourage cooperative play and allow children with varied physical abilities to play together. The chosen equipment is really being enjoyed by all the children at Pineridge and the local community. If you haven’t had a chance yet, stop by for a swing or a spin!”