St.Mary’s Healthcare System for Children in Bayside has been awarded a $258,000 grant from New York State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky, providing essential funding for renovations to the facility’s playground.
The funds, allocated through the New York State Senate, will support making the playground more inclusive for St.Mary’s diverse patient population and enhance therapeutic opportunities in an outdoor setting.
The renovation project will introduce new features such as a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, glider, and zipline, as well as a symbol panel to facilitate communication for non-verbal patients. These upgrades will create a safe and fun environment that meets the developmental needs of children at all stages of physical ability, offering them a chance to engage in play and therapy while overcoming medical challenges.
“At St.Mary’s, we work to support all aspects of a child’s developmental needs beyond just their medical care,” said Dr. Edwin Simpser, President and CEO of St.Mary’s Healthcare System for Children. “This generous grant from State Senator Stavisky and our partners in government will help bring joy to our patients, many of whom are in our care for extended periods. Having access to a more inclusive playground means that all children, regardless of their physical limitations, can enjoy themselves with their friends in a safe, outdoor setting.”
Senator Stavisky, who represents District 11—which includes the neighborhoods of Flushing, College Point, Whitestone, Bayside, Douglaston-Little Neck, and parts of Hollis and Bellerose—emphasized the importance of providing a space where children can experience moments of normalcy during their hospital stay.
“I am pleased to provide capital funding for St.Mary’s to renovate their playground,” Stavisky said. “The new equipment will allow patients and their families to play and socialize in a nurturing environment, offering comfort while the children receive the vital medical care they need.”
St.Mary’s has served New York City’s pediatric population for over 150 years and is the only facility in the city providing long-term and rehabilitative care for children with medically complex conditions.
