November 9, 2022 5:10 am
The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) is working with Chatham-Kent City Council to keep the Chatham-Kent Children’s Safe Village running.
Randall VanWagner, Manager of Conservation Areas and Services, said the LTVCA will provide a new permanent outdoor educational programme at the Safe Village at CM Wilson Conservation Area on Fargo Road, while maintaining a safe programme for children.
Conservation authorities say the COVID-19 pandemic has severely limited educational activities and programs in Safe Village over the past few years. Director Barb Lovell also retired in May this year.
VanWagner noted that the Safe Village has some activities and group education activities, but nothing to do with child safety.
The LTVCA said it was moving forward with all donors, supporters and partners in the village, with the goal of offering expanded outdoor education programmes, such as outdoor and Indigenous learning, in 2023.
VanWagner told CK News Today that LTVCA is now maintaining the facility, grounds and paying utility bills.
“We look forward to working with the service community and past donors to continue working on new programs for children’s safety and making the most of the facility,” VanWagner said.
Chatham-Kent Chief Administrative Officer Michael Duben said providing safe programs for children is very important to the community and the city looks forward to Safe Villages playing this important role again.