Kinders share in grand boost

18 Jun 2018 Wangaratta Chronicle, Wangaratta VIC (General News) EIGHT local kinders will benefit from new equipment, toys, learning kits and more, through State Government grants announced by Jaclyn Symes (MLC, Northern Victoria). They are among 219 kinders from across the state to share in $1.2 million worth of funding under the Inclusive Kindergartens Facilities Program, which provides up to $10,000 per kinder for one or more items that promote inclusiveness and diversity. Recipients include Wangaratta Childrens Services Centre and Wangaratta West, Coronation, The Hub, Glenrowan, Appin Park and Whorouly kindergartens, who will be able to purchase equipment including sensory play kits, adjustable furniture and nappy change units. Ms Symes said it was wonderful to know kids in Northern Victoria will benefit from even more inclusive, welcoming environments when at kinder. These grants are about ensuring our littlest Victorians get the support they need to thrive, she said. The grants are the first to be provided through the new $6.4 million Inclusive Kindergartens Facilities Program which will also provide kinders with up to $200,000 to upgrade buildings and playgrounds to make them more inclusive through the buildings and playgrounds stream.