Two key community projects in Oakville are moving forward thanks to recent grants from the Community Foundation of Portage and District.
The Oakville Early Learning Centre received full funding for a project to enhance its outdoor play space. Executive Director Cindy Curry said the grant will provide essential tools like wagons, pails, and shovels. The Centre also received another grant called the sustainability grant for additional trees, fencing, and 40 yards of sand from Early Learning and Childcare Manitoba,
"We're very excited to be notified that we got the full grant we asked for. Children need bigger spaces to move, dig, haul—all that heavy work that builds muscles and connections. This new space will really support that kind of outdoor learning."
The improvements build on the Centre's commitment to nature-based play.
"I'm a forest and nature school practitioner, and I strongly believe children need to be outside as much as possible. It's been a muddy spring, but the experiences the kids are having—those memories are priceless."
In addition to the outdoor upgrades, the Centre is preparing to hopefully open more infant and preschool spaces as staffing expands and staff go back to school to get higher designations.
"We're really excited to be getting fully opened and fully running for the community."
Meanwhile, the Oakville Community Club also received a grant of over $24,000 for a new modular stage at the Community Centre.
"It's a lightweight, wheelchair-accessible stage that can be adjusted for different events—formal, informal, big or small." explained Eric DeLong, president of the Oakville Community Club.
"It's a great addition to our new Community Centre."
Since its opening, the centre has seen increased rentals and strong community interest.
"The daycare side is busy, with a waiting list, and rentals for the hall have been steadily growing. We're grateful to the Community Foundation—they've been awesome supporters."
Both leaders emphasized the importance of community investment in Oakville's future.
With these new projects underway, Oakville continues to build a stronger, more vibrant spaces for families to have access to in the town of Oakville.
