KidSport has launched their 13th annual Give the Gift of Sport campaign, calling on British Columbians to donate this holiday season to help meet the growing demand from families who need financial support to register their child in organized sport. The campaign, which launched on November 25, runs until January 6, 2025.
Sport is an invaluable part of many children’s lives. Getting in the game ignites a sense of belonging, shapes character, fuels better health, builds confidence, and unleashes potential. But the cost of registration fees is a barrier for many families—and now the increased cost of living is creating an even bigger challenge, leading more families to turn to funding programs like KidSport for support.
Last year the organization funded 44% more applications than in 2022, distributing over $2.6 million to fund a season of sport for 7,742 kids across the province. This year, the organization is on track for another nearly 30% increase, expecting to fund 10,000 grant applications totaling more than $3M by the end of 2024, which would be another record year for the program in BC.
“We are proud that we’ve been able to support more kids than ever before to participate in a season of sport, but the increased demand is putting a significant strain on our funding resources, especially given that the majority of our community chapters are completely volunteer run,” says Angela Crowther, Director of the KidSport program in BC.
“Donations are needed to ensure we can continue our granting program in the coming year as it has been challenging for our fundraising efforts to keep up with the growing demand.”
Despite the challenges, the investment to get kids involved in organized sport is a worthwhile one as the benefits are well documented and extend far beyond just their physical health. Participation in sport at any level has been shown to improve brain development and functioning for enhanced learning, improve mental health and wellbeing, and helps develop social connections that lead to more diverse and inclusive communities.
“Sport has played a pivotal role in my life and has afforded me with many incredible experiences that extend far beyond just the wins and losses of the game,” says Crowther, a former member of Canada’s national women’s softball team and a 2004 Olympian.
“Your donation to KidSport helps provide important opportunities for kids to build friendships, gain confidence, and create positive community connections that help fuel their potential. You can have a significant impact on a child’s life for a relatively small investment.”
Donations made to KidSport can be directed to your local community to help fund a season of sport for kids where you live, and most donations are eligible to receive a tax receipt. To learn more about the campaign, or donate, visit KidSport.ca/GiftofSport.
Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNowNews Alerts.
