A new children’s play area sponsored by Jackson Health System opened to the public on Tuesday, December 20 at 4:00 p.m. with a formal ribbon cutting ceremony.
The 1,344 sq. ft. play area is located between Gap and Williams-Sonoma, near Center Court. Constructed of soft foam material, the play area features a variety of nature themed structures that allow children to play, climb and slide while parents enjoy a break from shopping underneath brightly colored shade sails.
“We are very excited to announce Jackson Health as the sponsor of this valued amenity at The Falls,” said Carla De Maria, director of marketing and business development. “The new children’s play area is just one way in which we have enhanced the shopping experience for our customers and their families at our destination center.”
Families in the community attended the festivities which included an arts and crafts zone, face painting, live music, refreshments and treats and giveaways.
“Jackson Health System is committed to the health and well-being of all Miami-Dade County residents, and part of that commitment is being good community partners,” said Carlos A. Migoya, president and CEO of Jackson Health System. “We are excited to collaborate with The Falls – a neighbor of our Jackson South Community Hospital – to bring a fun and safe entertainment option to children at the mall.”
The play area is a free, outdoor activity center specially designed for children under 42” tall that is ADA compliant and includes colorful anti-bacterial play elements. The Falls play area is not only fun, but it also contributes to exercise and positive developmental growth in a safe environment. Slides and climbers promote social interaction and development, cognitive development and problem-solving skills. For parents, it serves as an entertainment stop for children while watching all the action from benches that surround the gated play area.
Jackson Health System, a nonprofit academic medical system, ensures that all Miami-Dade County residents receive a single high standard of care regardless of their ability to pay. The Public Health Trust – a group of volunteer citizens acting on behalf of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners – governs the system consisting of its centerpiece, Jackson Memorial Hospital; Holtz Children’s Hospital, Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital, Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital, Jackson North Medical Center and Jackson South Community Hospital; multiple primary care and specialty care centers; two long-term care nursing facilities; Corrections Health Services clinics; a network of mental health facilities; and a network of urgent care centers.
The Falls is one of the largest open-air shopping, dining and entertainment complexes in the US. The 55-acre shopping center and tourist destination features 821,000 square feet of retail space with more than 100 specialty stores, restaurants, and cafés as well as Regal Cinemas and The Fresh Market. The Falls is located at 8888 SW 136th Street, off of US-1, and is open Mon. through Sat., 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sun., 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. For information call the management office at 305-255-4571 or visit www.ShopTheFalls.com.
