Canada aiming to get more kids ‘into the game’

Canadian Paralympic Committee launches fund to support children who are financially disadvantaged and living with a disability to take part in sport. 25 Sep 2013

Canada's Kevin Rempel tries to fend of Italy's Florian Planker. Both players are expected to attract media attention in the lead-up to Sochi 2014.

ⒸIPC

By Canadian Paralympic Committee

“Jumpstart’s investment in grassroots sports programming is exactly what is needed to help grow parasport opportunities across the country.”

Building on the strategic partnership announced earlier this year with the Canadian Tire Family of Companies, today the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities announced the start of a new fund that will help more kids to get in the game.

The two organisations invite Canadian sport and community groups to apply for the inaugural Parasport Jumpstart Fund. The fund, which is also supported by the government of Canada’s Sport Support Program, will help cover the costs of sports and recreational programs for children between the ages of four and 18, who are financially disadvantaged and living with a disability.

“The Parasport Jumpstart Fund is a great initiative that will help more Canadian children with a disability get involved in organized and recreational sports,” said François Robert, Executive Director of Partnerships for the Canadian Paralympic Committee. “Jumpstart’s investment in grassroots sports programming is exactly what is needed to help grow parasport opportunities across the country.”

The Parasport Jumpstart Fund is intended to support the creation of a new program or go towards the expansion of an existing successful initiative. Funds may be used towards registration, transportation and equipment costs for children within approved parasport programs.

“Supporting the Parasport Jumpstart Fund will provide opportunities for young Canadians with disabilities to get involved in and develop through sport,” said the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport). “Our Government is proud to play a leading role in the inclusion of people with disabilities in sport by supporting programs such as this. Our hope is that one day Canada will reap the benefits of this fund by seeing our youth become athletes who proudly wear the maple leaf on the international stage.”

“We are very excited to launch this fund in partnership with the Canadian Paralympic Committee so we can provide even more kids the chance to experience the benefits of organized sport and recreation,” said Johnny Misley, President of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “Organized sport and recreational activities teach young people critical life skills such as confidence and teamwork. Teaming up with the Canadian Paralympic Committee will allow us to assist families who have children with a disability to get active in their community.”

Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities will be accepting applications to the Parasport Jumpstart Fund beginning 25 September, 2013 and closing 29 October, 2013. Funds will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.