A memorial playground is starting to take shape, honouring the five lives taken in February's tragic homicides in Carman.
Six local groups have banded together to refurbish a facility in the northwest corner of town as a tribute to Amanda Clearwater, her three young children and teenage niece.
Related Stories:
- Province invests in grassroots Carman group following its work to help the community heal after February's tragic murders
- Provincial investment a "game-changer" for Carman Wellness Connections
Along with Carman Wellness Connections, the Carman & Community Chamber of Commerce is working on the project in tandem with the Boyne River Keepers, Carman Communities in Bloom, the Town of Carman and Genesis House.
The idea with this refurbishment, explained Carman Wellness Connections Coordinator Lisa Lehmann, is to encourage more natural outdoor play, comfort and creativity with nature.
"Many plants and trees have already been planted. A shade structure has been put up already. But what's coming in the new year is, we want to establish an accessible walkway with rubber, play stations and a wheelchair-accessible play structure."
In addition, artist, Jake Derksen, is creating a series of turtles that represent the victims to be placed throughout the playground.
"He's met the family and talked to them about the personalities of the family members," explained Lehmann.
There will be one larger turtle among the five that will sit on a rock looking back at the playground. It will represent Amanda.
"And within the playground, we're going to have four different turtles of different sizes throughout the playground that kids can play on," added Lehmann.
Genesis House is covering the cost of one of the turtles. It will be named Genesis and represent all of the people who've suffered from domestic violence.
In May, the Province contributed $20,000 towards such a memorial project.
Lehmann says, however, fund raising is still needed to cover the cost. Donations can be made at the Town of Carman office.