More kids in British Columbia will be able to participate in organized sports thanks to $400,000 in new funding from the provincial government, announced Parliamentary Secretary for Non-Profit Partnerships Gordon Hogg on behalf of Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.

KidSport is a non-profit organization that works to eliminate the financial barriers that can keep kids 18 and under from participating in sport. The program enables youth to participate in a sport of their choice through confidential financial assistance.

The funding will help KidSport assist more than 5,600 children and youth in British Columbia. Each grant averages $200 to $300.

Hogg made the announcement while taking part in KidSport's annual fundraiser, the Corporate Kids Challenge, featuring an old-fashioned school sports day with participation by Olympians including Ryan Cochrane, Carol Huynh, Denny Morrison and Cindy Klassen.

Quotes:

Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"For so many of us, participation in sport in our youth taught us important life lessons and helped make us who we are today. KidSport is a fabulous organization that works to make sport affordable for families. Our government is proud to support the work of this wonderful organization."

Pete Quevillon, KidSport director -

"The contribution that the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development is making to KidSport assists us to ensure that more than 5,600 kids annually get to play a season of sport."

"As a key partner, the government of British Columbia is showing true leadership in helping us to develop healthy kids and to maintain B.C. as Canada's most active province."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2006-07, the B.C. government has invested more than $2.2 million in KidSport.
• Last year, KidSport distributed $1.1 million to more than 5,600 kids throughout the province.
• KidSport was established in 1993 by Sport BC.
• With the help of the B.C. government and other supporters, KidSport BC has expanded from fewer than 20 community chapters to 40.

Learn More:

KidSport B.C.: http://www.kidsportcanada.ca/index.php?page=british_columbia_welcome

Contact:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250.208-4028 (cell)