The Government of Saskatchewan will launch a new funding program this fall aimed at helping schools across the province build or upgrade playground equipment.
Beginning in fall 2025, the province will invest $3.75 million annually into the School Playground Equipment Grant program, which will provide up to $50,000 in matched funding per project.
“Our government recognizes that every child deserves a place to play,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Alana Ross said in a news release. “Parent groups are working hard alongside local school councils to build safe, accessible playgrounds for their kids. This funding will help make their job a little easier, while ensuring projects are completed sooner.”
The program will be administered in partnership with the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA), a non-profit organization funded through Sask Lotteries that works to support parks and recreation development across the province.
“We are proud to expand our partnership with the Government of Saskatchewan in the delivery of the School Playground Equipment Grant program,” said SPRA President Darcy McLeod. “Playgrounds are crucial to child development and are foundational pieces of community infrastructure that support our health and wellbeing.”
While exact details of the grant criteria and application process have yet to be finalized, the province estimates that up to 75 projects will receive support each year.
“It takes time to plan and develop a school playground,” Ross said. “The program will launch in just a few short months and we want communities to know work is underway so they can incorporate this new funding option into their planning process.”
More information, including the application launch date and eligibility criteria, will be released closer to the start of the program following consultations with stakeholders.