Committed to improving playground facilities, Pennies for Play has launched a fundraising initiative aimed at installing two fixed playground structures on the Belleview-Santos Elementary campus at the earliest opportunity.
This endeavor is part of a broader mission to upgrade playground facilities across elementary schools in Marion County, ensuring an ideal environment for early childhood development – and of course, fun.
As of the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, numerous elementary schools within the county faced a shortfall in playground infrastructure. Out of the 31 elementary schools, 17 lacked two fixed playground structures, while three schools had no fixed structures at all.
Pennies for Play has taken on the challenge of bridging this gap by raising funds and supporting the installation of two fixed playground structures in every elementary campus by May 2025. The initiative aims to create safe and engaging play environments for young students.
Participating elementary schools include:
– Belleview-Santos Elementary
– Dunnellon Elementary
– Emerald Shores Elementary
– Fessenden Elementary
– Fort McCoy School
– Greenway Elementary
– Legacy Elementary
– Maplewood Elementary
– Marion Oaks Elementary
– Oakcrest Elementary
– Ocala Springs Elementary
– Reddick-Collier Elementary
– Romeo Elementary
– Shady Hill Elementary
– Stanton-Wiersdale Elementary
– Sunrise Elementary
– Wyomina Park Elementary
To support the Pennies for Play Fund, individuals can make tax-deductible donations through the Public Education Foundation of Marion County (PEFMC). Donations can be made via check, with “Pennies for Play” noted in the memo, or online through the PEFMC website. The initiative aims to raise funds ranging from $63,000 to $80,000 to cover the estimated costs of playground equipment, shade structures, and fencing.
For more information or to make a donation, individuals can reach out to Pennies for Play via email at Pennies4Play@gmail.com or by phone at 321-299-8889.
Pennies for Play is a community-driven effort dedicated to investing in the well-being and development of Marion County’s young learners, ensuring they have access to quality recreational spaces for years to come.
