A new playground, aiming to give children a chance at a better life, was blessed Thursday. But this is no game for the many families it serves.
There is no mistaking the sound of children having fun on a playground. The new equipment got the seal of approval from one parent.
"I like it, for the kids. They enjoy it, my son loves it. I think it’s bigger and better so all the kids, the big ones and the small ones can play," said parent Chanel Mora.
It’s a real improvement from what used to be here at the homeless shelter in Waianae.
"I don’t know they look all happy. They’re actually playing instead of sitting down on the grass, because before they used to just sit down. At least you can see now that they’re playing. They love it," Mora said.
"So this playground area, this structure is for preschool. Eventually what we will be doing is completing the entire playground so that we can also make sure that we take care of the infants and toddlers," said Head Start Director Lynn Cabato.
The new and improved playground came about thanks to a $10,000 grant from Kaiser Permanente Hawaii.
"It just makes your heart warm to see how much they’re actually enjoying it. And it’s going to get great use," said Jason Hall, from Kaiser Permanente. It’s a win-win for the kids and for Kaiser.
"And especially when you combine physical activity with academic learning, it just creates an opportunity for kids to be just better, well rounded and healthier individuals," Hall said.
This place is more than just a playground; the playground was needed to certify the preschool.
"The families and the children here, we’re able to provide early education services, making sure that they’re healthy and ready for kindergarten when they leave here," Cabato said.
And it’s education that could be a game changer for these children when they grow up.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
