Ravi Kahlon, Parliamentary Secretary for Sport and Multiculturalism, marked the official proclamation of KidSport BC Week with an announcement of $400,000 in funding at the annual Ritchie Bros. Corporate Kids Challenge 2017 this past weekend.

“Every child in B.C. deserves the chance to benefit from the social, physical and mental health that organized sports provide,” said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Lisa Beare. “By participating in sport, kids gain important life skills and strengthen their connections to their community.”

Established in 1993, KidSport BC is a non-profit organization that helps kids 18 years of age and younger participate in sport. Through confidential financial assistance, the program enables children and youth to participate in a sport of their choice.

“Breaking down the financial barriers for youth to access sport is a critical step to increase participation,” Kahlon said. ”Our government is committed to making life affordable for British Columbians, and programs such as Kidsport BC provide opportunities for all youth.”

KidSport BC was the first organization of its kind in the country and has grown to more than 40 community chapters throughout British Columbia. Close to 8,000 kids annually are provided assistance to access sport through an average funding grant of $300.

“KidSport BC is proud and honoured to partner with the Government of B.C. to ensure that no child is left on the sidelines,” said Pete Quevillon, director of KidSport BC. “The support of our provincial government allows our 42 community KidSport chapters to support thousands of kids to achieve their sporting dreams. So All Kids Can Play is our vision, and together with our partners, we will continue to allow more kids to get into the game.”

Quick Facts:

• The British Columbia government has proclaimed Sept. 9-16, 2017, as KidSport BC Week.
• Since 2006-07, the Province has contributed more than $4.2 million to KidSport BC – including today’s announcement.
• Established in 1993, KidSport BC operates 42 community chapters around the province and has helped tens of thousands of kids stay active and follow their dreams.

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 Tourism, Arts and Culture: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/community-sport-and-cultural-development