Pictured: Outside play will resume quickly thanks to a generous grant. Photo courtesy of the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County.

At least 19 preschools in Sarasota County saw their playground fences damaged in Hurricane Ian, which is preventing children from using the space until repairs are made. A $50,000 relief grant from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation–in coordination with the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County–will see that the work is done quickly. Outside play is critical for development of gross motor skills, activation of the sensory system, and behavior regulation inside the classroom. Willis A. Smith Construction of Lakewood Ranch was able to connect the foundation and coalition with Starline Multiservices, based in Odessa in Pasco County, to expedite repairs. The cost of repairs is proving to be lower than the insurance deductible for preschools, which operate with thin margins, so the foundation relief is proving to be a tremendous help to avoid out-of-pocket costs that were not anticipated. Additional efforts will be made by Barancik Foundation for the longer-term recovery.

Pictured: Outside play will resume quickly thanks to a generous grant. Photo courtesy of the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County.