The Province of British Columbia is contributing $400,000 to KidSport BC to help more children and teens play sports. Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Sport, Gordon Hogg, will make the announcement at the KidSport Corporate Challenge on Saturday to recognize the start of KidSport BC Week, proclaimed by the Province as Sept. 10-17, 2016.

Established in 1993, KidSport BC is a non-profit organization that helps kids 18 years and younger to participate in sport. The program enables children and youth to participate in a sport of their choice through confidential financial assistance. KidSport BC was the first organization of its kind in the country and has grown to more than 40 community chapters throughout the province.

Since 2006, the Government of British Columbia has invested nearly $4 million in KidSport BC. Last year, more than 8,000 kids received assistance with an average funding grant of $300.

Quotes:

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

“KidSport BC is a tremendous program because it helps our younger generation build a strong and healthy future. Every child deserves the chance to lead an active lifestyle and play organized sport. They can learn new skills, improve their self-esteem and make new friends while contributing to a strong community.”

Gordon Hogg, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Sport –

“Instilling the value of exercise and healthy living from a young age is a great way to keep kids active throughout their lives. I’m pleased to work with a great program like KidSport that provides unique opportunities to participate in organized sport, regardless of financial barriers.”

Pete Quevillon, director, KidSport BC –

“The incredible financial support provided by the Province of British Columbia to KidSport allows us to ensure that we are able to help families facing financial challenges to get their children involved in organized sport. Each year, the need for our assistance grows and this partnership ensures that our 42 community chapters are able to meet that demand. Our philosophy is that 'it takes a village to raise a child' and the Province plays a critical role as an integral part of the KidSport family – we are eternally grateful for this support.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2006-07, the Province has contributed $3.8 million to KidSport BC – including today’s announcement.
• Over 8,000 kids were assisted by KidSport BC in 2015, an increase of 13% from the prior year.
• Established in 1993, KidSport BC operates 42 community chapters throughout the province and has helped tens of thousands of kids stay active and follow their dreams.
• 20 corporate teams are expected to compete in this year’s KidSport BC Corporate Challenge, along with a number of high-profile Canadian 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