MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – Dane County nonprofit, The Playing Field, got a new play space Wednesday with the help of volunteers and donations.
“We know that being outdoors is so good for children, both mentally and physically, so we are so excited to have the ability for children just to come right outside their classroom door and be outside as much as they want,” said Abbi Kruse, The Playing Field’s founder and executive director.
Volunteers getting ready to plant a tree for The Playing Field’s new play area.(Paris Fransway)
The Playing Field provides childcare and early childhood education to families of all socioeconomic backgrounds, including those facing homelessness or housing insecurity.
“What we know about families that are experiencing homelessness is that obviously housing is their number one need, but after that it’s childcare because if you can’t go to work, you can’t pay your rent,” said Kruse. ”We see this space as a place that’s going to serve families, especially families that are in really vulnerable states.”
The play area project is part of their new childcare facility on East Springs Drive. The American Rental Association Foundation and The Toro Company Foundation provided a $20,000 grant, equipment, and volunteers to the project.
Many other businesses got involved with volunteering, including Ditch Witch, Event Essentials, MJ Miller Combined Companies, Lincoln Contractors Supply, Manitou, Saint-Gobain Abrasives, Sunbelt-Sun Prairie, and United Way of Dane County.
“We want to give back to the community that’s given back to us for a number of years, said Robert Copley. He is the Sales Director of Event Essentials in Madison and is volunteering with the play area project.
“It’s important to get outside and to be able to provide some space for the kids to come out and enjoy, and not have to worry about anything. It’s a safe environment for them, so we’re happy to be a part of this project,” said Copley.
The new childcare facility is set to open around the end of September.
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