The province highlights multiple commitments to programs that make physical activity more affordable for families and enable underrepresented children and youth to return to sports and physical activity, regardless of family finances.
This comes as the province celebrates KidSport BC Powered by Sport BC Week.
“We know how important it is for children and young people to take part in sports and physical activities,” said Melanie Mark, Hli HaykWL Ẃii Xsgaak, Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Sport is the great balance. It has the power to heal, promote health and lead children and young people to a better future. No child should be left in the bank because of their family’s finances. That’s why we invest in several programs to take the financial hurdles out of the game. Our government strives to move the scale so that all children and young people can thrive, dream big and shine in all aspects of their lives.”
The cost keeps one in three children away from organized sport, particularly those from marginalized or remote communities. Families facing financial hardship often find it difficult to pay for their children to participate in sports and physical activities. The COVID-19 pandemic added a layer of economic, social and public health challenges.
Children who are active through sport are physically and mentally healthier, better connected to their community, and develop important life skills such as teamwork and leadership. In honor of KidSport BC Week, taking place September 25-October 1, 2022, the BC Government is renewing its commitment and support to children and youth across the province.
KidSport BC is an example of an existing measure that provides direct financial support to low-income families. Through KidSport BC, children could be eligible for up to $400 per child per calendar year to pay for membership in qualifying sports organizations.
The province provides KidSport with an annual contribution of $400,000. In 2019, it provided a one-time investment of $2.5 million to expand the program over three years. As a result, $1.3 million was distributed to KidSport BC’s community chapters in 2021, supporting more than 4,100 children in 132 communities. The remaining funds will be used this year.
“Exercise helps children find belonging, shapes character, fosters healthy habits, builds confidence and unlocks potential – benefits that are important to all children, but especially those who face disadvantages as they grow up,” said Rob Newman, President and CEO of Sports BC. “By funding grants to cover the cost of sports registration fees, KidSport BC and our 40 community associations across the province, in partnership with our Sport BC members and their local clubs, are helping to help more children experience the power of sport. “
Additionally, in May 2022, the Department of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport announced $3.6 million for the RISE (Resilient, Inspire, Strength, and Engage) fund, a grant program funded by Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (ISPARC). This fund provides up to US$1,000 to children and youth in and out of government care to cover the fees and expenses associated with their participation in athletic, physical and cultural activities. Eligible fees are associated with registration, equipment, and travel for sports and activities such as soccer, ice hockey, drop-in fitness, hiking, or traditional indigenous dances and canoeing.
“We are extremely proud to work with the BC Government to deliver the new RISE grant program as we share a commitment to reducing barriers to participation and to addressing the unique needs of children and young people in and out of government care,” said Rick Brant, CEO, ISPARC. “Since the RISE program started earlier this year, we have provided more than 100 scholarships to young people aged three to 24 years. Sport, physical activity, recreational and cultural programs are good medicine, and these grants give recipients the opportunity to build a healthier future and experience that transformative power.”
The ministry is also providing $1.4 million to the After School Sport and Art Initiative (ASSAI). Through this free school-based initiative, children from Kindergarten through 8th grade have access to quality activities, one-to-one support, healthy snacks and transportation to increase engagement, and can reap the full benefits of participating in extracurricular activities. In 2021-22, more than 9,800 children participated in the program, including children from underrepresented groups.
“ASSAI has been an integral part of creating life-changing programs and opportunities for students in our school district,” said Stephanie Mills, school coordinator, Prince George Secondary Community. “Participation in meaningful activities through ASSAI programs has helped our students build confidence and self-esteem while facilitating equitable access and interest in new and positive activities. Staff have reported that students who participate in ASSAI activities return to school in a more regulated manner and are better able to communicate their needs effectively. ASSAI programming has helped us create accessible programs while nurturing a sense of belonging for all.”
Learn more:
If you or someone you know could benefit from the KidSport or RISE programs, visit the following websites for more information. Admission is open and ongoing:
Learn more about KidSport BC: https://kidsportcanada.ca/british-columbia/
More information on RISE: https://isparc.ca/grants-recognition/rise-grants/
A backgrounder follows.
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