TORONTO – A Scarborough public school targeted by an arsonist was quickly able to raise more than enough money for a new playground after it was destroyed Monday night.
Video of the burning playground outside Mary Shadd Public School has since been posted on Youtube.
Police are investigating the incident but believe the fire was set intentionally.
The cost of a replacement is not covered by the school’s insurance policy and officials are asking for public donations.
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The “play scape” was installed at the school just a year ago. School officials and students spent five years raising $20,000 to pay for it.
Donations have come pouring in since the fire with some organizations donating thousands of dollars each.
Just some of the major donations include $22,000 from Canadian Tire, $20,000 from Kids in Sports Foundation, $10,000 from TD Bank and $5000 from CUPE local 4400.
A new playground could be built by September.
Any other money not needed to replace the playground will be used for other school needs, officials said Wednesday.
Police have yet to identify any suspects but say they are interested in speaking to a group of people who were seen playing near the area 30 minutes prior to the fire.
UPDATE: As of Wednesday evening, the total amount raised was nearly $80,000
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