19 national organizations, including the local KidSport Canada branch in North Bay, are set to receive federal money to create a more inclusive sport environment for all.
Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota has announced more than $30 million for the youth through the Community Sport for All Initiative.
Rota says sports play an important role in building stronger, healthier communities across the country and should include space for all to participate.
Rota adds this assistance will allow youth to apply for grants of up to $350 to help cover registration and equipment costs if they’re registered with one of the local organizations.
Those organizations include North Bay Minor Hockey Association, North Bay Youth Soccer Club, North Bay Bull Dogs Football Club, KTP Racquet Club, Marceau’s Martial Arts, Dance Expressions and Apollo Gymnastics.
Dave Mendicino, Chair of KidsSport North Bay says “The Chapter works hard to make applying for funding quick and simple through our online application process. It’s important for us to ensure that the families and community sport groups feel supported and that the funding gets to where it is needed most.”
Officials say the funding is being distributed to groups working on the ground and the activities help eliminate barriers that hinder participation in sport, particularly in Black, Indigenous and racialized communities, or 2SLGBTQQIA+ groups, people with low incomes, newcomers and persons with disabilities.
