SASKATOON — Saskatoon Community Foundation marketing and communications manager Fred Reibin said they are preparing to evaluate grant applications aimed at getting children across Saskatchewan outdoors and away from screens through unstructured play under the Free to Play initiative.
Studies have shown that outdoor play, even in winter, is essential for kids' social and problem-solving skills. Being physically active also combats obesity, as Saskatchewan has one of the highest rates in Canada, with about 36 per cent considered overweight, according to the Government of Canada data.
The SCF applied to oversee the initiative in Saskatchewan and was selected by the Community Foundations of Canada to administer the provincial portion of the Free to Play initiative, a program with national scope. SCF will coordinate the granting process province-wide.
The SCF will be responsible for screening applications submitted by Feb. 28, and will distribute funds throughout Saskatchewan. The SCF has received a strong response from organizations across the province, which hope to launch projects that encourage children to spend more time outdoors.
The program specifically targets youth, emphasizing unstructured play and other activities that allow children to explore and interact freely rather than participating in organized sports or scheduled programming.
One feature of the funding model is that it is open not only to registered charities but also to non-registered organizations capable of delivering community programs. And, with the concept being new to many groups, it may also be a learning experience for organizations that have applied.
“Anytime there’s an innovative program, organizations need time to understand how it fits with what they already do. Some groups are naturally a strong fit, while others may need to reflect on whether they have the capacity to deliver this type of programming,” said Reibin.
The SCF has a provincial grant committee composed of experts in childhood education, outdoor play and community programming that will review the applications. The committee will rank the proposals and recommend the projects that should receive funding based on their potential impact and feasibility.
Rather than dictating exactly how funds must be spent, SCF evaluates whether applicants have designed effective and realistic projects. Organizations submit detailed proposals outlining how they plan to use the money, including budgets and activity plans.
“We don’t tell them how to run their programs. But because we see so many applications each year, we know what tends to make a project successful. We might ask questions or suggest things they should consider to make sure the funds are used effectively,” said Reibin.
He added that the key requirements are for programs to focus on children aged 12 and under and to promote unstructured outdoor play, with projects that might include organizing games at existing playgrounds, creating mobile play activities or bringing playful programming into community spaces.
Reibin said the flexibility is designed to reflect the diverse needs across Saskatchewan communities, since what might work in Saskatoon might look different from what works in northern communities or smaller towns in the south.
“We want to make sure the proposed ideas make sense for the geographic area they serve. We believe the initiative could have a meaningful impact on childhood development and community well-being. Time spent outdoors helps children develop social skills, creativity and healthier lifestyles,” he said.
“Anyone who’s been around kids knows the difference it makes when they’re outside playing. They’re more active, they interact better, and it’s a really foundational part of childhood development. Once the committee completes its evaluation, successful organizations can launch their programs later this year.”
