On March 5, the Government of Alberta announced that it has committed to giving $8 million to a program that helps make sports and recreational activities more accessible and affordable for Alberta youth.
The money is provided to KidSport Alberta through the Every Kid Can Play program.
Alberta families can apply to KidSport Alberta for up to $350 to help with registration fees. Provincial and community-level non-profits can also apply for a grant to help them reduce costs with either the delivery, expansion, “or enhancement of existing community-level programs,” according to information from the Government of Alberta.
“Sport and recreation opportunities should be affordable and accessible for all, especially young children and youth,” said Joseph Schow, Minister of Tourism and Sport, in the March 5 announcement.
Sports are an important aspect of growth, and teach “teamwork, builds confidence and promotes healthy lifestyles that can last well into adulthood,” he added.
Kelly Oehlerking, executive director of KidSport Alberta, said the funding will help ensure children, “regardless of their financial circumstances,” can enjoy playing sports.
“KidSport has been able to support more than 8,500 kids through Every Kid Can Play, and this financial support will create transformative opportunities for thousands of Albertan children,” said Oehlerking.
