Ellen’s Childcare Outdoor Play & Learning Space

Ellen’s outdoor play area at the Immigrant and Community Refugee Organization of Manitoba (IRCOM) is used daily by children from low-income and newcomer refugee families. It offers a safe, welcoming place to play, learn, and build confidence while parents attend programs such as English language classes and financial literacy sessions. Outdoor play supports children’s physical health, social skills, emotional well-being, and resilience, helping them feel a sense of belonging, form connections, and gain the skills they need to thrive. Funding can transform the outdoor area into a vibrant and inclusive play space that supports children’s physical, social, and language development. This space also strengthens families by providing parents access to programs essential for settlement and well-being, while keeping their children close and able to spend time in a stimulating, enriching environment.

The community wants to add a safe rubber pathway for running and bikes, a sandbox, a low-maintenance clover turf, and natural play elements, such as child-safe, weather-resistant wooden logs for children five and under.