The provincial government will invest $4 million to help get young Albertans active.
The funding, which will be delivered in partnership with KidSport Alberta and the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association, aims to help make sport and recreation activities more accessible and affordable for Alberta children and youths.
This funding will also rejuvenate and sustain existing programs for disabled and parasport participants, according to the provincial government.
Funding of $1.85 million will support more than 7,000 children, as KidSport Alberta will distribute up to $250 per child to assist with registration costs for sport programs across Alberta. Parents can apply for funding through KidSport Alberta and use the grants to offset registration fees for organized sport programs such as lacrosse, swimming, soccer, gymnastics and dance. Applications opened on Wednesday and will be accepted until the funds are distributed.
“Economic and pandemic impacts have affected children participating in sport, physical activity and recreation, and the organizations that deliver these programs,” said Ron Orr, minister of culture.
“This announcement will benefit youth not only by allowing them to get active but also by improving their overall mental and physical well-being. The funds announced today will also provide a much-needed boost to the sector and make these sport and recreation opportunities more affordable and more accessible to kids across our province.”
KidSport Alberta and the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association will distribute $2.1 million. These funds will be distributed to 140 qualified sport, physical activity and recreation organizations in the province through grants of up to $15,000. Applications also opened Wednesday and will close on Aug. 7.
Heather Cowie, Alberta Recreation and Parks Association president, said sport, physical activity and recreation are essential to individual well-being, not just physically but also for one’s mental and social well-being.
“This grant program is inclusive and will help community-based organizations reduce barriers and ensure children, youth and families of all abilities can access opportunities that match their individual need,” said Cowie.
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