Open public spaces are essential for fostering community connection, well-being, and a sense of belonging. They provide residents with safe places to relax, exercise, socialize, and engage in cultural and recreational activities. In Sri Lanka, ESAF Global Canada (EGC) has partnered with HealthBridge to support the Jaffna city government in making neighbourhoods more livable and community-centred by improving public spaces, streets, and local markets.

The efforts to improve public spaces started with a detailed mapping activity in Jaffna. Through this process EGC discovered that there are few existing parks for residents to enjoy, and the parks that do exist have few or no activities for families and children. To address this issue, EGC proposed a series of recommendations aimed at transforming these parks into more inclusive and functional areas for all community members. Plans include creating healing gardens to improve mental health, introducing child- and family-friendly spaces, and enhancing park accessibility. Community participation in park maintenance will be emphasized for sense of shared ownership.

The vision for the future of parks in Jaffna includes removing economic and accessibility barriers by removing entry fees and adding features such as shaded seating, restrooms, and play equipment to make parks more welcoming for families. The healing gardens in each park which will serve as an aesthetically pleasing component offering calming and relaxing environments to promote mental well-being. EGC also proposed safe walking and biking paths in Jaffna city to connect parks and other public spaces to improve accessibility, especially for residents who walk or rely on bikes for transportation.

To increase public support for parks and promote parks as family friendly spaces EGC hosted two community engagement events. One event attracted over 75 parents and children, featuring activities like storytelling, games and poems. The second event, "Let it Sunshine," brought together 45 young participants, including children with disabilities, for an environmental conservation competition. These events highlighted that parks are great venues for energizing social activities.

Accessible and family friendly parks in Jaffna are a start for a healthier, more connected and livable urban environment – one where public spaces truly serve the needs of the community.