The Chicago Park District announced an in-kind grant program to support the expansion of their Nature Play initiative citywide.  Park advisory councils and community groups are encouraged to apply for support to build or expand a nature play space in their park by June 1st. Chicago Park District will provide grants to 10 projects, with grant funding support of up to $10,000. Nature Play areas are managed with a goal of at least 50 percent native plant coverage that provides habitat benefits for local wildlife as well as educational benefits for kids. The Park District partners with community groups to fund and maintain the spaces.  The new grant program aims to aid groups at any stage of the nature play space process including design, installation, maintenance, and training. Additional information and applications are available at https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/nature-play-spaces. Applications are due by June 1.  For more information, contact your local park, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com or call 312-742-PLAY.