Portage la Prairie is one step closer to having wheelchair-accessible playground equipment which would make Island Park a more inclusive play space for everyone.
At the centre of the initiative is Kim Wikdahl, volunteer and co-chair of the Parks Committee. She says the idea was sparked years ago after watching a local family help their child, who uses a wheelchair, on and off a school bus — and noticing the lack of accessible options in the city’s parks.
“I just thought ‘Wow there’s nothing here for them to play on,’” says Wikdahl.
That realization turned into action. She began researching and found wheel-chair accessible playground options.
“I started to look at getting a wheelchair swing and some more accessible playground equipment for these kids. I found out the swing can not only be used for kids but it can be used for seniors or anybody else that's in a wheelchair.”
Included on the swing, is a platform for a wheelchair on one side and a bench on the other, allowing users to enjoy the experience together.
Efforts gaining momentum
Wikdahl presented the idea to the city in 2022, and since then, the fundraising efforts have gained traction.
“We’ve had a great reception from the community saying 'yes, this is a good idea, we need it.'”
“Cash calendars” are currently being sold for $5 to support the project. Each calendar offers 31 chances to win prizes throughout May, with winnings ranging from $20 to $500.
“We're selling the cash calendars until the end of the month, and if they all sell, I'm hoping to have enough funds for the swing.”
The project recently received a boost with the confirmation of a grant, and several local businesses have also pledged donations. Still, planning is ongoing, and the city must approve a location that is fully accessible before plans become reality.
“We still have to talk to the city and see where we can put it. Being a wheelchair swing, you can't put it in the sand or the grass or gravel because the wheelchairs can't get through there.”
Inclusion for everyone
While the wheelchair swing is the first step, Wikdahl says she hopes it's only the beginning. Her dream is a fully accessible playground with a wheelchair-friendly merry-go-round, braille panels, sensory equipment, and more.
“I think it's important for everyone to be included. I remember when I was a kid, I'd sit for hours on the swings. Somebody in a wheelchair doesn't get that opportunity. I'd like to see all kids have the ability to swing because it's lots of fun. I think of the seniors that used to swing when they were little. For them to have that opportunity again, they would like that as well.”
To support the swing and future wheelchair-accessible equipment in Portage, donations can be made in person at KKWIK Automotive or City Hall. E-transfers are also accepted through payments@city-plap.com — just be sure to specify that the donation is for the Accessible Playground Equipment.