Sparked by the increased need for parks and green spaces during the COVID-19 pandemic, Park People launched WinterParks in 2020, an organization-wide effort to get communities across Canada outdoors during the winter months. WinterParks supports Canadians in staying safe, connected and happy throughout the winter season with the goal of reducing social isolation, as well as supporting mental and physical health.
While WinterParks was spurred by the pandemic, we know this season will serve as a launching pad for cities to embrace a newfound love and appreciation for winter in years to come. Our ultimate goal is for Canada’s city parks to reflect and embrace our identity as a true winter nation.
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Our local urban parks are ideal places to explore our Nordicity and where we begin to truly love the city in winter. City parks where we can discover the potential of winter and build warm memories that will open us up to future outdoor adventures. |
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Even in a non-pandemic situation, it’s important for us to get outside and enjoy nature in any kind of weather. Here are some tips and ideas on how to embrace your inner pluviophile and enjoy the rain this year! |
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In Montreal Park Jarry, Coalition des amis du Parc Jarry (CAP Jarry), recipients of a TD Park People Winter Grant, turned the cast-offs of the Christmas season into a beautiful Ephemeral Forest of recycled trees that reflected community members’ hope and dreams. |
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Park People strongly believes that cities across Canada need to do all they can to ensure parks are safe and welcoming this winter. In this post are some priority areas Park People has identified that would make a profound impact on Canadians’ mental and physical health this winter |
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In an effort to truly embrace our nature as a winter nation, we are launching the first TD Park People Winter Grants, supporting 15 community groups in Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal to deliver awesome nature-based activities that foster environmental education, sustainability, and stewardship in a safe and winter-friendly way. |