The PvdA and Christian Union factions are jointly calling on the mayor and aldermen to conduct an evaluation into expanding the subsidy options for children’s play weeks/activities. They will submit a motion to this effect during tomorrow’s council meeting.
Organizations of children’s play weeks are increasingly having difficulty keeping their heads above water. This has everything to do with cutbacks imposed in 2020. The PvdA and Christian Union want to see whether these cuts can be (partly) reversed.
Small amount, big effect
“Children’s play weeks really make a positive contribution to the growing up of children. Particularly for children from families with fewer financial resources,” says Hetty Pullen, Christian Union faction leader. “They can still participate through the game weeks and they are not on the sidelines.” In Hollandscheveld alone, the game weeks are attended by around 150 children every year.
“Due to the imposed cutbacks, the organizations of children’s play weeks have started looking for other sources of income. Some of it is met with sponsorship and donations, but we also hear that organizations are making heavy use of their reserve fund, to the extent that it exists,” adds Lisa Schonewille, PvdA councilor.
In the motion, the parties call on the council to bring forward the evaluation of the subsidy and to organize it next year and to investigate whether the subsidy can be increased. “The municipality can thus make a positive contribution and ensure a pleasant holiday for many children. It is probably only a small amount, but an amount with a major positive effect,” says the PvdA councilor.