A $50,000 relief grant from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation – in coordination with the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County — will see that the work is done quickly. Outside play is critical for development of gross motor skills, activation of the sensory system, and behavior regulation inside the classroom.
Willis A. Smith Construction of Lakewood Ranch was able to connect the foundation and coalition with Starline Multiservices, based in Odessa in Pasco County, to expedite repairs.
The cost of repairs is proving to be lower than the insurance deductible for preschools, which operate with thin margins, so the foundation relief is proving to be a tremendous help to avoid out-of-pocket costs that were not anticipated.
“Schools and teachers of all varieties have been through so much disruption in the last few years that Barancik Foundation has made returning classrooms – and playgrounds – to normal a priority in the wake of the storm,” said Teri A Hansen, the foundation’s president and CEO.
“We would like to commend Carlos Yeguez of Starline Multiservices for his compassion and cooperation in putting the needs of our littlest learners center stage,” said Janet Kahn, the ELC’s CEO. “Despite his company’s full plate, he has dedicated a team to this widespread preschool effort. We are grateful for his initiative, focus and speed in getting our little ones back on the playground.
Additional efforts will be made by Barancik Foundation for the longer-term recovery.
