Students in Ms. Shannon Fleming's class enjoyed spending time outside at the new playground area at the Pattonville Early Childhood Center. The space was created thanks to the PTO applying for a grant from the Bridgeton Landfill Community Project Fund.

PTO treasurer and school secretary Laura Wick said they received $4,800 to build it.

"We had a contractor tear up the concrete pad and put in a sandbox and climbing mountain," Wick said. "We had volunteers help with the tons of sand and mulch needed to meet safety guidelines."

Grants from the Bridgeton Fund are for initiatives that contribute to the betterment of the environment, health, and safety of the communities within a four-mile radius of the Bridgeton Landfill.