St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School unveils new accessible playground

Nov. 7, 2024

Students began asking for new structures in 2021 after the existing one started having age-related concerns.

It’s been a long time coming for students, staff and parents of St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School in Douro.

Following years of fundraising, securing grants and community support, the new accessible playground is officially ready for use.

“In 2021, after our existing structures started having age-related safety concerns, the children at the school implored the staff at the school and their parents to look at options for replacement,” said Sarah Bass, parent and member of the St. Joseph CES Catholic School Council. “Our parents, local businesses and people who call Douro home, raised funds through a community yard sale, sponsorships, Fresh from Farm, quilt raffles and Christmas craft sales.”

The school community did everything it could to ensure the new structure was not only a replacement but something that met current and future accessibility needs for years to come.

The total cost of the structure is around $154,000.

Funds raised include $8,000 from a community yard sale as well as sponsorships from local businesses.

The project also received a federal grant for enabling accessibility totalling $70,000 and $10,000 from the AgriSpirit Fund.

Construction began in the late summer and culminated with a prayer, read by principal Wayne Clark, and grand opening ceremony on November 7.

“The excitement was palpable when construction began in August, and the joy is still on full display at recess and beyond. Thank you to everyone who supported this project,” added Bass.

The new playground can be enjoyed by families year round.