FLORENCE, SC (WBTW) – A trip to a park is usually considered a good time.
However, for those with physical disabilities, especially children, it can pose a challenge.
“She can come but she just has to kind of sit on the side,” said Erika Chapman, as she stood beside her daughter Suubi.
For Chapman it can be tough to watch her 7-year-old daughter Suubi Chapman, who is both blind and has cerebral palsy, to sit on the side.
“It breaks my heart because she has so much to offer other people,” she said.
About a year ago, Chapman got the idea rolling to help bring an all-inclusive park to Florence, which doesn’t have one.
“We have this wonderful wheelchair swing but it’s not inclusive in the sense that kids are not really playing together. Inclusive means all the kids being able to play together,” Chapman explained.
Chapman eventually formed the group I PLAY Florence, which has already raised almost $1,500 of its goal of $75,000.
“Because we make it possible to play to together and spend time together, but they should be able to go to the park just like any other child should be able to go to the park,” she stated.
According to the city, there are parks in Florence that meet ADA requirements, but to build an all-inclusive one could be as much as $700,000.
For parents like Chapman, they find it tough to maneuver their child through a regular playground.
The City of Florence is working with I PLAY Florence on a five year funding plan, but the group wants to get things done sooner.
It also applied for the Seeds of Hope grant.
If you would like to donate or find out more information about the group, click here.
