May 20, 2011

Grapeview's Playground Campaign Sizzling 

Beefing up their efforts to install a new accessible playground at Grapeview Public School in St. Catharines, a group of parent volunteers were excited to learn their project has become a finalist in the Keg Steakhouse's "Thanks A Million" grant program. The program, in celebration of the restaurant chain's 40th anniversary, will award 40 community building projects with grants of $25,000 each. Winners will be determined through a voting process on the grant website.

"Having a fully accessible playground will be a huge benefit to both the school and surrounding community," says Karen Chcoski, DSBN teacher and parent volunteer. "We're encouraging everyone to show their support for students by going online and voting for the Grapeview project each day."

Members of the public can register their support by voting here.  Voting runs from May 16, until June 14, 2011.

The “Making Memories” campaign, which began in early February, has set a goal of nearly $100, 000. Dedicated students, staff and community members have already raised $50,000 to this point. “The support the campaign has received so far has really been overwhelming,” says Chcoski.

Grapeview has been without its own dedicated playground for approximately two years now. Principal Claude Ayotte says new equipment will have many benefits for the students and school. “In addition to being a safe place for students to get daily activity, it will also allow them to interact socially and positively towards their peers and staff. Learning to play appropriately with this type of equipment will also help make it easier for families to take their children to a park on the weekends and enjoy time outside as a family.”

The “Making Memories” campaign will continue through to the end of the school year. The group hopes to have the new playground installed by August, 2011.

Grapeview Public School is located at 106 First Street Louth in St. Catharines.