A photo taken of Vern Remy's cheque presentation this week outside Queen Mary School. (Submitted/Vern Remy)

By Nigel Maxwell

Walking for a cause

Queen Mary playground fundraiser reaches $10K

May 29, 2021 | 10:00 AM

A $40,000 playground upgrade project at Prince Albert’s Queen Mary School, is one step closer to construction, thanks in large part to a major donation this week.

Vern Remy and his cousin, “Dr. Bob”, recently raised $3,880.

For the second consecutive year, the pair embarked on a challenge to walk 100,000 steps. Starting at Christopher Lake, the pair proceeded down highway 363, through Prince Albert National Park, then concluding at Elk Ridge Resort.

In a statement provided to paNOW, Remy explained that due to COVID restrictions, the school has had difficulty raising money. He added another challenge is the socio-economic climate of the area.

“Schools depend on parents and students for fundraising, but when the choice is between food in their own fridge or giving money for a new playground the families have a clear choice,” he said.

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Remy added a functioning playground promotes wellness and a reason for children to enjoy going to school.

The playground structures essentially go all around the school, and the structure directly in front is still in good shape. However, a number of other structures are quite old and need to be replaced. The fundraising drive, which started last year, has to date raised $10,000. School principal Kari Korczak is very grateful.

“Because of the support of the community, we are hoping by the end of next year, to have some new equipment in our playground,” she said.

One of the first goals is to address a large void in the Grade two area. The Prince Albert Optimist Club has stepped up with roughly $6,000 worth of donations, for two pieces of equipment.

A number of other community groups have been big supporters including Prince Albert Grand Council ($800) and Pure Athletics gym and their members contributed an additional $461.

“Every little bit helps and we appreciate any and all donations,” Korczak said

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell