Some parents and schools are crying foul because a provincial grant system that raises money for playgrounds seems to be giving money to already affluent schools.

Of the schools that got a piece of the $1.5-million fund, many of them were from affluent areas -- but inner-city schools came up short, with no new money to replace aging facilities.

Some 281 schools applied for the grants, and 96 schools received the grants. This is only round one of its giveaway, and schools will have another two chances to cash in.

But the major factor that determines whether a grant will be given is whether the school can match the funding -- impossible for some schools, say advocates.

"You know we could hold a hundred bake sales, but we could never match those kinds of dollars," NDP MLA Jenny Kwan said, referring to some of the schools in her riding in east Vancouver. "Whereas other schools, other parents, they can just whip out their chequebooks."

Over in Point Grey, St. George's private school is home to some of the wealthiest students in Vancouver, and it received a $20,000 government grant for new playground equipment.

But on the east side of Vancouver, inner-city public school Grandview Elementary could use a hefty dose of cash -- but didn't get any.

"We could use $20,000," said Grandview Elementary Principal Liz Kloepper. "If you look at our playground, we've got the older pieces, there are newer, more modern, exciting playground pieces."

To get money, the schools need to apply, and Kloepper says she didn't bother, because she knows she'd be turned down.

"Major fundraising that would require us to raise several thousand dollars -- we can't do it," said Kloepper.

Education Minister Shirley Bond said the grant-giving system may not be set in stone.

"I think that's worthy of a discussion with the B.C. Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils to see if together we can provide a way for those schools to find a way to apply for the funding," said Education Minister Shirley Bond. "That's something we can follow up on for sure."

But Kloepper said there's no need for discussion.

"I would like the government to say who needs the money and send us an application," said Kloepper.

With a report from CTV British Columbia's St. John Alexander