The parks and recreation department will offer a modified Summer Play Program for kids this year and will look to provide supply kits to families for free.
The program will be funded entirely through grant applications from the Community Initiatives Fund, Saskatchewan Lotteries and Canada Summer Jobs. The parks and rec department was able to acquire $45,848 from these organizations for this initiative.
During its May 25 regular meeting, city council unanimously approved a motion to allow the modified program to go ahead this summer.
Background
The department and the Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate usually offer a summer playground program and youth activity centre during the summer, with these programs delivered with the support of grant funds and the department’s operating budget, explained Scott Osmachenko, recreation services manager.
However, due to the pandemic, the operating budget portion had been put on hold. Furthermore, city administration had indicated earlier that the program would not happen at all this year since the ability to operate a traditional program would only be included in phase 4 of the provincial government’s Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan.
The support of grant funding has helped the parks and rec department design and implement a modified Summer Play at Home program, Osmachenko said. This program is similar to the Education Home School Program, in which children ages five to 12 receive activities and supply kits for free.
“Program supplies and resources would be available to pick up in neighbourhoods and focus on play, mastery and physical activity that would be conducted at home or open spaces, while ensuring compliance with the provincial COVID-19 guidelines,” he continued.
The department would recall five summer playground staff to deliver the program, as per the funding that the Canada Summer Jobs program provided. Staffing costs would be $29,709, while program expenses would be $16,139.
Council discussion
The provincial government announced that phase 3 of the reopen plan would occur on June 8, which included allowing outdoor gatherings of up to 30 people, said Coun. Chris Warren. He wondered what the typical attendance was for the outdoor summer program and if they would be close to that restricted number.
The three busiest parks — Elgin, Sunningdale, and East End — usually have more than 30 participants, not including program employees. In contrast, some of the smaller programs normally see eight to 15 participants, said Osmachenko. Thus, the programs would be near the limit of 15 to 30 people in certain locations, especially in areas with pools or splash pads.
If there was more funding, the department could adapt the program, especially if phase 4 allowed for more in-person activities, he continued. Summer staff could also organize more neighbourhood activities at nearby playgrounds, which would take the stress off parents since they wouldn’t have to plan a day of activities for their kids. Staff could also provide more equipment to ensure there are no cost barriers to participate.
The next regular council meeting is June 8.
