News release: Momentum continues in fundraising campaign for Kingston’s first inclusive playground

Following approval from City Council on April 15, the inclusive playground to be built in Shannon Park will be named the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground thanks to grant funding provided by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (‘Jumpstart’) and the Kingston Canadian Tire dealers. Jumpstart is a national charity that works to help youth overcome barriers to sport and play.

“Jumpstart is an excellent community partner and has been supporting initiatives in Canada to help kids play for 20 years and we are so excited to welcome their support in Kingston,” said Amy Elgersma, Director, Recreation and Leisure Services. “The funding from this naming rights agreement is an important part of getting closer to the fundraising goal for the inclusive playground.”

In the spring of 2023, a group of Kingston residents met with City of Kingston staff to discuss the idea of an inclusive playground. Since then, the volunteers and partners of the Inclusive Play Project have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars.

"We are proud to help bring the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground to life in Shannon Park," said Stuart McReynolds, AVP, Programs & Advocacy, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. "Jumpstart is committed to creating a more inclusive Canada by developing safe and inclusive play spaces for kids of all abilities. This partnership with the City of Kingston demonstrates our dedication to building stronger communities through the power of sport and play."

Special thanks to those individuals who have already donated to the Inclusive Play Project, and for the significant support from Kinsmen Club of Kingston, Britton Smith Foundation, V2 Innovations, Swyrich Corporation and Kingston Construction Association.

The Inclusive Play Project continues to work tirelessly towards its fundraising goals and would greatly appreciate your help to make this playground a reality. To donate or find out more about the Inclusive Play Project, visit its website. Because playgrounds should be for everyone!