The universally accessible playground provides a place to play for kids of all abilities

The City of Thunder Bay and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (Jumpstart) are proud to announce the opening of the new Jumpstart Inclusive Playground in Boulevard Lake Park. At over 1,100 m2 (11,000 square feet), the Jumpstart playground is the largest inclusive play space in Thunder Bay and the second of its kind in the province.

“The City of Thunder Bay’s total investment in the playground and surrounding site works is approximately $800,000,” said the Mayor of Thunder Bay. “Investing in municipal infrastructure, including parks, helps build stronger communities and makes for a better quality of life for the citizens of Thunder Bay.”

From double-wide ramps to barrier and transfer-free equipment, the play space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate sensory, cognitive, and physical disabilities. Through collaboration with Jumpstart and thanks to the generosity of local Canadian Tire Dealer Robert Nearing, local kids of all ages and abilities can play together side-by-side, fostering a stronger, more equitable, and healthier community.

“Through play, kids have the opportunity to develop valuable life skills such as teamwork, confidence and creativity,” said Marco Di Buono, President of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “We are proud to partner with the City of Thunder Bay and our local Canadian Tire Dealer to bring the power of inclusive play to the community.”

The playground is conveniently located in Boulevard Lake Park, and is an important part of an outdoor recreation hub that also features an adult fitness centre and beach volleyball area. The Jumpstart playground is part of the Charity’s Inclusive Play Project, which focuses on removing accessibility barriers to sport and play.

About Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities

Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities is a national charity committed to ensuring kids in need have equal access to sport and recreation. With an extensive, national network of more than 1,000 grantees and 289 local chapters, Jumpstart helps eligible families cover the costs of registration, transportation, and equipment, and provides funding to selected organizations for recreational infrastructure and programming. Supported by Canadian Tire Corporation, Jumpstart has provided more than 2.7 million opportunities for Canadian kids to get in the game since 2005. For more information, visit: www.jumpstart.canadiantire.ca

Follow Jumpstart on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to learn how the Charity is giving kids across Canada a sporting chance.

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Contact:      

Werner Schwar, Supervisor – Parks & Open Spaces Planning, City of Thunder Bay, 807-620-7611 or werner.schwar@thunderbay.ca

Julia Michalopulos, Advisor – Corporate Communications, Canadian Tire Corporation, 343-573-8073 or julia.michalopulos@cantire.com