EasyTurf Donates Artificial Grass to Play Area at Option House

EasyTurf, an approved contractor for Southern California’s HERO Program, took action in the lives of children escaping domestic violence recently by offering to donate and install artificial grass as part of a major renovation to the play area at the Option House in San Bernardino, Calif.

The Option House is a non-profit organization that provides services to women and children victims of domestic violence including 24-hour crisis intervention, shelter, transitional housing, education services and much more. The HERO program is a Property Assessed Clean Energy financing program that empowers homeowners to be more energy efficient, helping the community attain sustainability goals.

With this donation and participation in the HERO program, EasyTurf, the commercial and residential landscape arm of FieldTurf, continues its tradition of supporting local charities and helping make a positive community and environmental impact throughout North America. “We want the best possible play area for our children here at the Option House,” says Melissa Brooks, program manager. “We know EasyTurf is the best and we are so happy that the kids can play on such a safe comfortable surface now.”

Before a recent private donation of play equipment and the artificial grass play surface installation by EasyTurf, the Option House play area was an uneven dirt area plagued with mud and holes from poor drainage. Even in its condition, this less-than-ideal space was still a refuge for upwards of 20 children at a time.

Option House aims to bring stability and order back into the lives of women and children affected by domestic violence, and reduce future risks of victimization and displacement. They offer many life-saving services to the local community with the mission of promoting the health, safety and rights of victims of family violence.

According to EasyTurf President David Hartman, “Giving back to the community that we serve is a way for EasyTurf to try and help make a difference in the lives of others, and giving the women and children at Option House a safe, beautiful place to experience some joy and play again was one project we absolutely couldn’t turn down.”

Additionally, EasyTurf employees and office staff are currently organizing further support for Option House by collecting toys, clothing, household essentials like laundry detergent, toiletry kits with personal hygiene products and funds for a big Mother’s Day surprise for the residents. These are simple items that can make a huge difference in the lives of families in need.

Hartman states: “Giving back is something we can all do. When considering what you can do for the community, even small efforts are appreciated. As a business we are blessed not only be able to give back to the community through the donation of our water-saving play area, but with a staff that continually joins in our efforts and gives personally as well.”

Option House depends on local support from churches, businesses, civic groups, and individuals. The smallest amount in monetary donations can pay for medical supplies or prescriptions, and larger amounts can change lives—providing residence at the shelter for 60 days for victims of domestic violence.