For children with developmental challenges or medical conditions, a traditional playground can limit their access to play, while adaptive playgrounds break down barriers and allow these children to foster social skills and a sense of belonging.
In September, CHRISTUS Health received a generous donation from the Ace Hardware Foundation to fund the installation of a new outdoor adaptive playground at CHRISTUS Kids Clinic – Coushatta. “This donation was the seed that allowed this new space to grow and flourish by purchasing the playground equipment totaling $25,000,” said Amy Heron, executive director of philanthropy at CHRISTUS Foundation Shreveport-Bossier. “Then our dedicated Children’s Miracle Network partners Walmart, Dairy Queen, Love’s Travel Stops, Valvoline and Ace Hardware stepped in with their fundraising efforts, along with committed individual donors and CHRISTUS Associate donors to provide an additional $100,000 to bring the playground to life. Safety and security were top of mind with the fence and enhanced ground surface to allow for play and mobility for children with all types of exceptionalities.”
The playground features adaptive swings and slides, sensory-friendly musical elements and equipment that promotes mobility, balance and coordination, creating an inclusive space where therapy and play come together…