Ocean Springs has been selected to receive a $30,000 play space grant from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and The Walt Disney Company. This investment supports NRPA and Disney’s combined goal of providing one million kids and families with greater access to play.
Twenty-five park and recreation agencies and cities nationwide were selected to receive grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 to support projects that increase access to play spaces in local parks for children and families.
The projects selected include a variety of innovative play space enhancements, sport field/court enhancements, trail and walking path enhancements, and mobile play spaces, which include flexible play equipment and activities that can be moved and put to use in different locations. All of the projects focus on inclusive play spaces that increase physical activity and play for children and families.
The city of Ocean Springs is partnering with Disability Connection on this project and will use the $30,000 grant to provide four fully accessible play structures in the Little Children’s Park. These structures provide opportunities for physical and sensory activity to children and adults of all physical abilities.
“NRPA is proud to collaborate with The Walt Disney Company to help more children and families experience the benefits of play,” said Kellie May, NRPA director of health and wellness. “By increasing access to play spaces, this program will also provide new activities that support healthy lifestyles in local communities.”
The Meet Me at the Park program includes an Earth Month campaign as well, where funding is awarded for local park improvement projects that connect kids to nature, inspire healthy living and provide access to sports. The campaign celebrates Earth Month and the importance of local parks.
To learn more about Meet Me at the Park, visit www.nrpa.org/disney.
