The transformation has begun at the Empower Simcoe EarlyON Child and Family Centre in Barrie, with shovels in the ground and construction officially underway for the new playground at 129 Ferris Lane, Barrie!
Made possible through the Empower Simcoe Foundation’s Hooray for Outdoor Play Campaign, this new accessible and inclusive playground will provide a much-needed outdoor recreational and learning space for the young children and families we serve throughout our community.
During the construction phase, EarlyON and Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Entry to School programs will continue to operate as scheduled. We kindly remind all parents, caregivers, children, employees, and community members visiting 129 Ferris Lane that the site is an active construction zone. Although fencing has been installed around the construction area, construction vehicles and equipment will be entering and exiting the property regularly.
“The addition of this outdoor playground space at our EarlyON Child and Family Centre in Barrie will allow children to engage with the natural world, develop physical skills, and connect with their surroundings,” says Empower Simcoe Chief Executive Officer Dr. Claudine Cousins. “These experiences are invaluable in nurturing well-rounded and resilient individuals, making this playground expansion a vital enhancement to the EarlyON Centre’s mission of supporting families and children in their journey of growth and learning.”
The Empower Simcoe Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to the many donors and community partners whose generosity has helped bring this exciting project to life. Donations to the Hooray for Outdoor Play Campaign are still being accepted. Your investment will help create lasting memories for current and future families supported by Empower Simcoe’s Child and Family Services programs.
Please note that parking at 129 Ferris Lane will also be limited during this time. Refer to this aerial image for details on the construction area and available parking locations.
