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In a significant move to enhance play opportunities for children in Saskatchewan, more than 40 playground projects have received a total of $2.3 million in provincial grant funding. This initiative, launched in the fall of, aims to assist schools in developing new play facilities on their grounds, providing children with opportunities for recreational activities.
Among the schools benefiting from this funding are St. Paul School, Bishop Filevich Ukrainian School, and St. Anne School in Saskatoon. These grants are designed to empower parents and communities to create inclusive play environments where all children can thrive.
Building inclusive playgrounds for all
One of the leading figures in the movement for accessible playgrounds is Brittany Hiebert, who is spearheading the project at St. Anne School. In a conversation with Global News, Hiebert shared her personal connection to the cause—her daughter now uses a wheelchair due to an accident. This experience opened her eyes to the lack of accessible playgrounds available in Saskatoon.
“There are very few options for children with mobility challenges,” Hiebert emphasized. She took it upon herself to lead the initiative, driven by a desire to create play structures that cater to children with varying abilities. “This change is imperative; every child should have the right to play,” she asserted.
Understanding the need for accessibility
Traditional playgrounds often feature elements that pose challenges for children using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. For instance, sand and numerous stairs can make it difficult for these children to participate fully. Hiebert believes that having accessible playgrounds should not just be an option but a standard across all school facilities.
“Participating in play brings joy and a sense of normalcy,” she noted. For children with disabilities, being able to access playgrounds should be a typical experience, not an exception. The new playground at St. Anne’s will incorporate features such as ramps, lowered monkey bars, and a rubberized surface that is safe for both children and adults in wheelchairs.
Funding and community involvement
While Saskatoon currently has a few accessible playgrounds, only one is located on school property—at John Dolan School. Hiebert pointed out that many schools remain inaccessible to children with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of making playgrounds available in educational settings.
To date, St. Anne School has successfully raised around 80 percent of the required funds for their new playground and aims for its completion by the summer of 2026. The existing playground will remain, with the new accessible facility being constructed adjacent to it.
The broader impact of the grant program
The School Playground Equipment Grant program is not only vital for St. Anne School but also for many other schools across Saskatchewan. This initiative allows community and parent groups affiliated with publicly funded schools to apply for financial support, with projects eligible for grants up to $50,000, matching funds raised through local fundraising efforts.
The Government of Saskatchewan has committed to allocating $3.75 million annually over the next four years to this program, which aims to invigorate community engagement and promote healthy, active lifestyles for children. According to SPRA President Darcy McLeod, the early interest in these grants highlights the essential role of recreation in enhancing the quality of life for families in Saskatchewan.
Among the schools benefiting from this funding are St. Paul School, Bishop Filevich Ukrainian School, and St. Anne School in Saskatoon. These grants are designed to empower parents and communities to create inclusive play environments where all children can thrive.0