​Funding available for local groups to create outdoor play opportunities for children in Grey-Bruce

Community Foundation Grey Bruce is inviting eligible local organizations in Grey-Bruce to apply for funding through Free to Play, a new initiative supporting outdoor, unstructured play for children and youth.

Free to Play is led by Community Foundations of Canada, with support from the Waltons Trust, the Lawson Foundation, and participating community foundations across the country. The program backs community-led solutions that remove barriers to play and create inclusive, safe, and imaginative spaces where kids can move, grow, and connect. Community Foundation Grey Bruce has $205,000 available to disburse locally in this first of two calls for applications.

“This is an exciting opportunity to help all children in our community enjoy safe, joyful, unstructured, and meaningful play,” said Rick Hill, chairman of the foundation’s board of directors. “Free to Play supports local projects that help kids explore, take on challenges, and build life-long skills and friendships through play.”

Projects supported by Free to Play may include:
 

• Re-imagining public spaces to encourage unstructured play in natural environments
• Nature-based and cultural programs, such as forest classrooms
• Creative, community-led play programs that reflect local imagination and needs
• Equipment libraries where families can borrow toys and gear at no cost

Eligible applicants include: registered charities, incorporated non-profits, Indigenous organizations, and other qualified donees.

“Free to Play is about more than play – it’s about equity, imagination, and belonging,” said Stuart Reid, executive director of the foundation. “We’re excited to work with local partners to make play more accessible for all kids, especially those who face systemic barriers.”

Applications in Grey- Bruce opened Nov. 28, and close Feb. 24, 2026. Applicants can download the applicant guide from the foundation’s website at communityfoundationgreybruce.com/ and then apply through the national portal.