Papa’s Park is an open access playground in the heart of Brixton, that has seen many generations of local children pass through its gates. Since the pandemic, Papas have had to close to protect the community. They are fundraising to to cover the revenues they rely on to keep Papas open, dawn ’til dusk, 365 days a year.
The Pulross Area Play Association (PAPAs) was set up in the 90s to rescue a derelict former council run play area and save it from developers. The group created a safe haven for children in the area and their families. This work continues today with a dedicated team of volunteers who are committed to protecting this very special community asset for future generations.
In 2018 Papas received funding from Suez Communities Trust, Veolia Environmental Trust and Lambeth Council to transform the playground. Weeks before the pandemic they completed further redevelopment of the new multi-use pitch, funded by Sport England. 
To complete the renovations, they had recently commenced fundraising to build a brand-new sustainable community space, this would include a larger café and better hall facilities for the local community. Papas Playground also have a community garden where locals help to grow vegetables and teach children about the natural world, which they will extend with a planned green roof on the new building.
Papas committee say “We are asking that if you, your children or your family have ever played at our playground, you support us during these unprecedented times. So we can remain an open-access space for the community and safe-guard this important part of Brixton from luxury flat developments.”
To support the campaign visit: https://payitforward.london.gov.uk/keep-papas-gates-open
