The B.C. Government is providing $400,000 to KidSport BC in order to help children and teens play sports, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Sport Gordon Hogg announced today on behalf of Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.

The announcement took place at the annual KidSport BC Corporate Challenge in Burnaby hosted by Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers and held during KidSport BC Week, officially proclaimed by the Province as Sept. 7-13.

KidsSport’s philosophy is that all kids should have the opportunity to participate in organized sport, regardless of any financial barriers that may exist. Money will be distributed in the form of grants for children aged 18 and under to participate in one season of play in the organized sport of their choice.

Quotes:

Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development –

“Sport is a large part of life for many children and teens. It’s where they learn about comradery, hard work, discipline and the ability to work with others towards a common goal. It also builds an important foundation that leads to a healthy and active lifestyle for the future. Every child should have a chance to participate in sport, and I’m pleased that we continue to fund this worthwhile program.”

Gordon Hogg, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Sport –

“Through my own involvement with sport, I’ve seen first-hand how sport participation can impact the lives of young people in positive ways. It not only provides many immediate benefits but it can put kids on the path to future success as adults. By supporting KidSport, the Province is showing its commitment to helping kids from all walks of life experience the many benefits sport has to offer.”

Pete Quevillon, director KidSport BC –

“The incredible support that the Province of B.C provides to KidSport allows thousands of B.C. children to participate in organized sport every year. These kids would not otherwise have the opportunity to realize the many benefits of participating in sport including improved health, enhanced academic performance, and increased confidence. Through this generous contribution, the 41 community KidSport chapters across the province are able to leverage additional support locally and to ensure that no child is left on the sidelines.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2006-07, the Province has contributed more than $3.4 million to KidSport BC – including today’s announcement.
• Over 7,000 kids were assisted by KidSport BC last year, an increase of ten per cent over 2013.
• Established in 1993, KidSport BC operates 41 community chapters around the province and has helped tens of thousands of kids stay active and follow their dreams.
• This year over 20 corporate teams took part in the KidSport BC Corporate Challenge, along with a number of high-profile Canadian Olympic athletes competing as team captains.

Learn More:

KidSport BC is an organization that helps address the challenges facing many families, and their mission remains the same – to remove the financial barriers that prevent some children from playing organized sport: http://www.kidsportcanada.ca/british-columbia/

Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/community-sport-and-cultural-development