TLC Centre recently completed its front yard renovation and is now fundraising for outdoor riding toys, water tables, picnic tables, and more.
This past summer, the local daycare levelled the front yard for proper drainage and laid down a rubber-surface play area in the space. On the rubber surface, they painted a racetrack and a couple of hopscotch games for the children.
Kimberley Goerzen-Monk, executive director of TLC Centre, said the board of directors made the decision to renovate the front yard because they weren’t utilizing it to its full potential.
“Our front yard contained a big wooden gazebo that was in need of repairs, and it took up most of the front yard leaving little space to play in,” she said. “The front yard also become very muddy and mucky every time we had moisture because it didn’t have proper drainage.”
They tried growing grass in recent years, but the yard was too wet for anything to grow. So, earlier this year when the ground thawed, TLC Centre gave the Town of Carman their large gazebo, which now sits at the 5th Street park. Once it was removed from the daycare and the groundwork was finished, they replaced it with a new wooden gazebo, thanks to the Carman Area Foundation (CAF).
CAF approved a $2,400 grant for the centre to purchase the new gazebo, which will offer staff and students protection from the sun.
“The gazebo is amazing,” said Goerzen-Monk. “Children can sit under it and eat lunch, participate in activities, or read books. The possibilities are endless.”
The front yard renovation also added another play area to the centre, allowing staff to take smaller groups to the front playground where it’s quieter and less hectic.
“The project was important because our front playground is the first outside area people see when they drive up to TLC Centre Inc.,” said Goerzen-Monk. “Staff and the board of directors desired another play area for children to play in that was quieter than our big loud playground in the backyard. The rubber surface is foot friendly, and the children have so much fun riding around the track in their cars.”
That’s why the centre is hoping to raise $5,000 for more inclusive riding toys and items to play with for all children. People can donate to the cause by contacting the centre and sending a cheque or e-transfer.
“We hope people want to support TLC Centre Inc by helping us continue to improve our play areas for the children in the community who attend TLC Centre Inc.,’ said Goerzen-Monk. “Parents are able to work knowing their children are well cared and supported during the day because we can provide high quality play opportunities to all children.”
