Townsville Toy Library wins two grants to level up facility for summer
The toy-borrowing service has qualified for two grants levelling up their new venue and turning them into the most affordable — and chilled — play day option this summer.
Townsville
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After losing their building and most of their toys in a flood in 2019, a toy borrowing service which has saved Townsville families thousands moved into its new location in Vincent.
Sadly not long after, a $5000 fence at the Townsville Toy Library was destroyed in a senseless act of vandalism.
Finally, their luck seems to have turned around with the centre qualifying for not just one, but two grants, helping them install and run air-conditioning in the cruel North Queensland summer.
Using $2500 from a Bravus Mining & Resources Sponsorship grant, they’ve bought construction theme toys for their members to borrow and the community to loan out.
According to the centre, construction toys enhance kid’s creativity, problem-solving skills, spatial awareness and fine motor skills.
They also foster teamwork when kids build shapes and structures together.
And thanks to federal funding, they can install four air-conditioners in their new space in Vincent.
The Stronger Communities Grant of $20,000 was secured with the help of Herbert MP Phillip Thompson, and will keep them cool all summer.
Townsville Toy Library President Nikki Dunne said she was exceptionally grateful.
“Air-conditioning is necessary for our volunteers and members to work and spend time in the toy library all year round,” Ms Dunne said.
After a bumpy beginning in the new location, Treasurer Stacey Prenter said that the financial assistance the grant provided has allowed them to get back on their feet.
“The installation of air-conditioning has made our new space more welcoming,” Ms Prenter said.
“We look forward to hosting more community events in 2024.”
Mr Thompson is also encouraging the Townsville community to take advantage of this fantastic organisation and all it has to offer.
“Many are doing it tough right now and with school holidays around the corner, I want to encourage everyone to check out the library and their affordable options to play and have fun.”
Originally published as Townsville Toy Library wins two grants to level up facility for summer
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