Hensall playground reopens with accessible play structure

Although the temperatures have gotten chillier, young people will be able to play on the new, accessible play structure that’s been installed at the Hensall Kinsmen Park. MPP Lisa Thompson and Emma Bartz, an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) volunteer, were there with municipal officials for the ribbon-cutting at the park, and recognized the impact of the $100,000 Capital grant the Municipality of Bluewater received last year from OTF to carry out the work.

"This new playground equipment is a great addition for the community of Hensall," said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron Bruce. "It will be a great space where youth can explore, play, socialize and have fun! In supporting this structure, the Ontario government is affirming its commitment to creating family-oriented, safe communities."

The Hensall play structure is an important source of fun and activity for many local children and youth. It provides countless hours of entertainment and joy. Replacing the outdated equipment with a new, accessible structure ensures that the playground can be enjoyed by children of all abilities, creating a safe, inclusive environment that supports play and social development.

“Play is an important part of a child’s early development,” said Maggie Off, Manager of Facilities, Municipality of Bluewater. “Through play, children develop social skills, build friendships, and participate in physical activity. By supporting the development of our youngest residents through investing in safe, inclusive spaces where they can grow, we’re supporting our residents in building a healthy, active future.”

Bluewater recognizes that children are the future and an important part of the community. The Municipality would like to thank the members of the community who participated in the process by providing suggestions for the design. With their contributions, the Municipality was able to choose a playground design that meets the needs of the community. It hopes the new play structure will be used and enjoyed by children and youth for many years to come.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations celebrates 40 years of grant-making in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships. Visit otf.ca to learn more.