Kids in the Town of Essex will be able to beat the heat with the reopening of all three splash pads in the community on Friday.

Town of Essex splash pads in Essex Centre, Harrow, and Colchester, will reopen for regular hours (9am to 9pm). Parents and guardians are reminded that splash pad users will still be required to follow physical distancing as recommended by public health officials. New signage has been installed to remind splash pad visitors of the requirements.

“While we are opening these splash pads to give local youth a chance to cool down during hot weather, it’s important that users, parents, and guardians remain vigilant and continue to follow the direction of public health officials,” said Mayor Larry Snively. “We ask that all of our citizens continue to do their part to stop the spread and protect our community.”

Each splash pad location will include new hand sanitizing stations. Under Council direction, the Colchester splash pad will also be monitored on Saturdays and Sundays by Town of Essex staff to remind users to comply with physical distancing.

Prior to reopening, all Town of Essex splash pads were inspected by the Windsor Essex County Health Unit to ensure compliance with local guidelines.

If you work with children, consider getting tested for COVID-19. Visit your nearest assessment centre or contact your primary care provider or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 for information.

Do you need help with purchasing an air conditioner or with an increase on your hydro bill because you're using one? This program provides assistance for people who are in receipt of OW, ODSP or for those living near the LIM (Low Income Measure).

For more information, please call (519) 351-8573

The Transitioning Families group is starting virtually Mid-August! This group is for parents/guardians of trans* youth. To find out more or to register please email sarmstrong@aidswindsor.org.

The Salvation Army Chatham Kent Ministries Thrift Store is open. Store hours will be Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Please note this is the Chatham store ONLY. They are still waiting on Wallaceburg and Ridgetown. If you have donations please drop them off during open hours.