£2,200 distributed to buy toys and equipment for local children
Through the Local Giving Fund, managed by independent charity Devon Communities Together, £2,200 was distributed to twelve rural community organisations across Devon during November, to spend on play equipment to support groups providing activities for children and young people.
Rural groups were invited to apply to Devon Communities Together for grant funding, with a cap of £300, with successful applicants including a Youth Café, Baby and Toddler Group, Youth Clubs, A Family Advice Support Group, Guides and Scout Groups.
“Socialisation and play is such an important part of childhood, so it was a privilege to be able to give these brilliant organisations funding for new toys or sports equipment. Volunteers put in a lot of time and effort to run these groups, and it felt good to be able to give something back to them,” said Charlotte Squire, Devon Communities Together Project Manager.
The items bought ranged from a mud kitchen, soft footballs, glow in the dark dodgeball, and Duplo, to sensory play equipment and a play parachute. All the items will add interest, fun and teamwork to the sessions for children and young people.
Shirley Fewings from Dawlish Action for Youth, which purchased sports and games equipment, spoke about the impact the fund has had: “The funds have enabled the staff and volunteers to extend the range of activities available to the children, whilst allowing the children to come up with their own ideas and games to put the equipment to good use. It’s rewarding to see the young people take ownership and help to plan the activities (they can be very imaginative!).”
Family Advice Support Team works with children across Teignbridge, Torbay & the South Hams area. Julie Hinder said: “The Glow in the Dark Dodgeball kit with UV lights has been very well received by both youth groups (aged 11 to 17). We have used the LED lights in both the basement to add atmosphere and in the 'break out room' to enable lower, more relaxing lighting as this is usually used as a quiet space.”
“The Step up Down Roller Coaster has been a huge hit with our little people! Amazing they soon got the hang of taking turns, and the Mums appreciated that this was not a toy for most homes but great fun in a village hall setting!” said Carole Smith of Exminster Baby and Toddler Group.
“The mud kitchen really sets their imaginations going wild and we have seen such lovely play as a result. Our home education group built the mud kitchen, closely following instructions and problem solving along the way which has given them a great sense of pride in it - they carefully clean it down after each session and have used it to wash freshly dug potatoes, beetroots, carrots and more,” said Shan Keary of The Gardeners Co. CIC in North Devon.
Thank you to the groups for the lovely photos of the new purchases in action!
