The Northumberland Backyard Project is being spearhead by Five Counties Children’s Centre, in partnership with the County of Northumberland, Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, YMCA Northumberland, and the EarlyON Child and Family Centre.
Scott Pepin, CEO of Five Counties Children’s Centre shared how important it is to have access to a safe outdoor space.
The outdoor space will be a boost to programs and services for Five Counties as well as partner agencies and they’ve applied collectively to Commonwell LEAF for a grant to help make it a reality.
Pepin told us more about the services Five Counties Children’s Centre provides.
Funding approval from Commonwell is based on community support, and that’s where you can play a part.
Visit the Commonwell website and take a moment to share your support and why this project matters.
According to Pepin, the parcel of property behind the Five Counties’ Northumberland site in Cobourg can’t be used due to safety and accessibility issues.
The collective vision is to put up fencing and install an accessible playground, sensory play equipment, an accessible garden area, a gazebo, storage space and eventually a track.
Scott told us that they’ve already proved the worth of having access to an outdoor space for programming.
A Backyard Project was completed two years ago at the Five Counties in Peterborough and its success really highlights how important a space like this can be.
You can visit the Commonwell website at: FCCC: Accessible/Safe Backyard Green Space | The Commonwell to share your stories, photos and support.
Written by Joseph Goden
