NEWS RELEASE
BETHESDA
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Bethesda is proud to announce the launch of its Toy Lending Library, a new initiative dedicated to providing an inclusive play experience for children and youth with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The Toy Lending Library will offer families in Niagara access to a wide variety of toys and program materials designed to support meaningful play and promote skill development for children with diverse needs.
For many families, access to toys and essential play materials can seem out of reach. The Toy Lending Library will help bridge this gap by offering toys at no cost, ensuring that families have the resources they need to nurture their child's development. By providing these resources free of charge, Bethesda is giving families in Niagara the opportunity to support their children's growth and learning in a way that fosters joy and discovery.
“Play is a vital part of a child’s development, and we believe every child, regardless of ability or background, should have the opportunity to play and thrive,” said Paul McGowan, Chief Executive Officer at Bethesda when announcing the Toy Lending Library at Bethesda’s recent Caregiver Appreciation Event. “Bethesda’s Toy Lending Library is designed to ensure that all children have access to toys that support their unique needs, helping them develop skills, explore their senses, and most importantly—have fun.”
The library will offer a wide range of interactive toys specifically chosen for their therapeutic potential, promoting sensory exploration, fine motor skills, social engagement, and cognitive development. Each toy will be carefully selected to meet the needs of children and youth at various developmental stages, allowing them to engage in play that is both enjoyable and beneficial.
This initiative would not have been possible without friend of Bethesda, Mountainview Building Group. Mountainview has generously sponsored $10,000 to support this cause that will have a longstanding impact on the community.
“We are truly grateful for Mountainview’s generosity,” said Bethesda’s CEO. “Their support will have a far-reaching impact on the lives of countless children and families in our community. Their belief in our mission and support of this initiative highlights the power of community collaboration. Mountainview has a long history of supporting the Niagara Community and this is another example.”
Other local organizations and individuals have also stepped forward to support this meaningful project. Bethesda is thankful for the continued partnership of these generous donors, who are helping ensure that children across Niagara have access to essential resources that foster their growth, learning, and play.
From toddlers to teens, the library will provide a diverse range of toys suitable for children of all ages and abilities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive through play.
“The Toy Lending Library is not just about providing toys—it’s about supporting families and children in need,” said McGowan. “Our long-term goal is to create partnerships that will allow us to continually replenish our inventory, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of children and that every child gets the chance to experience the joy of play. Mountainview has pledged multi-year support of this initiative and we couldn’t be more grateful.”
Together, we can cultivate a more inclusive play environment for all children, helping every child realize their full potential.
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