UNITY

After coaching U5 soccer last summer which takes place on the Uniacke School field, I knew something needed to be done about the playground. It was then inspected by the board and deemed unsafe a week before school started this September.

As parents, we found out the school had no plans to fundraise for a new playground yet. This was very unfortunate news as we have a 6 year old student named Mason who cannot even get outdoors to play with his friends as the playground is not accessible and Mason uses a wheelchair.

We were told a playground is not a priority for the school board so unless we are able to raise the funds on our own, nothing would be done. As it is severely deteriorating, myself and a group of of moms (Mason's mom included) stepped up to create a non-profit and we're now raising the funds to support the inclusive playground project.

UNITY stands for "Uniacke Neighbours Investing in Tomorrow's Youth"

So, we plan to be involved with other improvements and youth activities in Mount Uniacke, but the inclusive playground project is our first big task. We're working hand in hand with Home and School (also made up of parent volunteers) to raise enough money so we can qualify to write the grants needed to support the build.

We have held community events like the Winter Thaw event on March 7 at Uniacke House and we have some more upcoming events to involve the community and its youth - like a Youth Night and Giftcard Bingo at the Legion. We know it's a challenge to find activities locally for youth without travelling to Enfield or Sackville, so we think it's important to continue planning these events.

If people would like to know more about upcoming events or how to get involved, they can follow our page UNITY IN UNIACKE or view our website: unityuniacke.ca

Our Refundable Fundraiser pilot was a success! AS a more permanent solution, we've set up a secure collection bin to make it even easier to support UNIT'S inclusive playground project. Simply dropoff empty bottles and cans in the bin at Fraser's Auto Salvage.

Monday to Friday, 8am - 5pm Saturday, 8am - 12noon

Our biggest fundraiser is a monthly 50 / 50 draw , winner being drawn the last Wednesday of each month. Community members can support and have a chance to win half the pot, by purchasing tickets at https://www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/unity