Special to the Record
The Chelsea Public Health Department, in collaboration with the Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs, has launched a new “Play for All” Project aimed at better understanding how Chelsea residents of all ages engage with play, recreation, and public spaces. The goal of “Play for All” is to make opportunities to play in Chelsea more accessible and inclusive and to promote overall health and well-being. “Play for All” is made possible through a partnership with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC).
As part of the project, Chelsea residents are invited to participate in a survey about how they spend their time; what brings them joy and connection; and how the City can improve its recreational offerings. At the end of the survey, participants will have the option to enter a raffle for one of five available Market Basket gift cards. Winners will be selected on October 27, 2025.
“Play is a social determinant of health that often is overlooked, yet, it is a powerful antidote to feelings of depression and isolation, and a booster for overall well-being,” said Flor Amaya, Public Health Director for the City of Chelsea. “Through Play for All, we hope to remind our residents that play is for all – for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, and that play is not just sports or board games. Play is whatever makes you feel more connected, more alive, and happier. We encourage everyone to share their thoughts so we can continue building a healthier, more inclusive, and connected community.”
“In Chelsea, play is about more than fun, it’s about health, equity, and belonging,” said Vanessa Guardado-Menjivar, Regional Epidemiologist for North Suffolk Public Health Collaborative. “Through the Play for All project, we’re listening directly to residents to understand the barriers and opportunities for play in our neighborhoods. This community-driven data will deepen our understanding of how play connects to well-being and helps guide future conversations about creating spaces that foster movement, connection, and joy.”
“For years, Chelsea residents and City leaders have dreamed of more spaces for connection and recreation,” said Charlie Giuffrida, Director of Athletic Infrastructure and Sports Tourism for the City of Chelsea. “‘Play for All’ builds on that vision by asking residents directly what play means to them and how we can create opportunities that reflect the values of our community. This is another important step toward building a healthier, more connected Chelsea.”
Residents interested in participating in the survey can access it online at https://tinyurl.com/chelseaplay. For more information or questions about the survey, please contact Flor Amaya at [email protected] or call 617-466-4080.
Only Chelsea residents are eligible to enter the raffle. To enter, participants must provide their name, phone number, and email separately from survey responses, ensuring confidentiality.
Chelsea is home to a diverse population living in densely populated neighborhoods with limited green space. The “Play for All” initiative responds to the urgent need for equitable access to safe, welcoming places for recreation and play, which are essential for physical health, social connection, and overall well-being.
MAPC is the regional planning agency serving the people who live and work in the 101 cities and towns of Greater Boston. MAPC works toward sound municipal management, sustainable land use, protection of natural resources, efficient and affordable transportation, a diverse housing stock, public safety, economic development, clean energy, healthy communities, an informed public, and equity and opportunity among people of all backgrounds.