Well-worn floors at a children’s play centre were replaced after receiving a donation from the Port of Prince Rupert on December 8.
A $9,000 contribution by the Community Investment Fund was handed over to the Prince Rupert Growing Space Society in an effort to strengthen early learning foundations. The centre, which sees over 200 visitors a week in the Ocean Centre Mall, was in need of new floors and extra padding to ensure a softer surface for the children’s play space.
President of the Growing Space Society, Elizabeth Melanson said, “We were able to replace the mats we purchased more than seven years ago with more durable, safer flooring that will meet the needs of children in the community for many years to come.”
The centre offers families and daycare providers a place where children aged six years or younger can learn new skills and stay active in the crafting area and playground. The children can also explore the collection of toys and books at the centre.
“Having a dedicated indoor space to escape the weather and get some extended physical activity is a blessing. And it really wouldn’t be possible without the generosity and support of community groups and businesses like the Port,” Melanson said.
The Community Investment Fund offers a portion of the Port’s annual income in combination with funding from other businesses, groups and government agencies to local projects that improve the quality of life in the region. Since 2009, the Fund has given millions of dollars in support to local improvement projects.
President and CEO of the Prince Rupert Port Authority, Don Krusel said, “The fact that Prince Rupert has a volunteer society like the Growing Space is a testament to the importance placed on early childhood education and development in this community.”
The volunteer mom-and-tot group originated in 1975 at the Civic Centre and moved to several different venues before settling into its current location at the Ocean Centre Mall in 1984.
“The work of this thriving family centre has supported childhood growth and maturity for several generations. It is a joy to sustain that legacy through our Community Investment Fund,” Krusel said.