Merritt Youth & Family Resource Society

The Merritt Youth Family Resource Society saw a need in their community to build a safe, inclusive indoor space that would improve the health and well-being of families. The project’s main goal was to create a covered space to use all-year-round to give kids more space to play, learn, and discover the world around them. The area features an outdoor garden space, rubber surface covering nearly 3,000 sq. ft., outdoor heaters, and tall fencing to keep out the elements.

“For our Family Place Early Learning Centre’s new playground, we thought about how we wanted to set up our space that would be most beneficial to the children and the families. Also, the children need to learn how to play on the ground and not only look at climbing structures. We realized being down close to mother earth and grounded with nature was the best way. In order to do this and be accessible to special needs children, we realized that a rubber coating on the surface was a perfect way to meet the needs of the child and to learn how to play on the ground within a safe environment.”

- Lenora Fletcher, Executive Director

Why Choose Rubber Flooring?

Rubberized flooring protects children by lessening the impact of a fall, it’s resistant to spills and moisture, it’s slip-resistant, can withstand high volumes of foot traffic and is a sustainable solution due to its long lifespan.

Kal’s RePlay Fund provides funds to enhance community spaces such as indoor play areas with recycled rubber flooring surfaces, and more. With revitalized safe and inclusive places to gather and stay active, together we’re promoting healthy, thriving communities.

Since 2019, Kal Tire has helped recycle millions of pounds of rubber to build inclusive spaces.

Kal Tire is proud to support projects across Canada that foster healthy interactions for all ages. The Merritt Youth & Family Resources Society received $20,000, which mostly funded the rubber surface. Approximately 7,257 kg of rubber was recycled to pour the rubber surface.

“We are so fortunate to have this opportunity to provide the option to have such an amazing open space that is safe and fun for all. Kal’s RePlay Fund was user friendly and although in great demand, it was accessible for this much needed rubber playground. Thank you, Kal Tire for being there for us.”

- Lenora Fletcher, Executive Director