Funding infusion for sport in BC communities
COMOX – People of all ages and abilities will be able to participate in a greater number of sport activities as a result of an additional provincial investment of $100,000, announced Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.
“We are working to make it easier for British Columbians to participate in sport and enjoy the health and social benefits that result,” said Cadieux. “This funding comes from the Sport Legacy Fund and is part of our commitment to ensuring benefits of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games live on.”
The funding will go to the Local Sport Development Program, which with a base budget of $160,000, currently provides sport activities to 3,400 people in 58 B.C. communities.
Community organizations can apply to launch new programs or expand existing ones, with funding available up to a maximum of $2,000 per project. Eligible applicants include municipalities, Aboriginal groups and not-for-profit organizations that directly deliver organized sport programs. Projects must demonstrate inclusive and equitable practices that maximize sport, recreation, physical activity and leadership opportunities in the community.
“We thank the provincial government for its ongoing commitment to support community sport through the Local Sport Program Development Fund,” said Bruce Dewar, CEO of 2010 Legacies Now. “This fund has proven success in supporting new opportunities for British Columbians of all ages and abilities to participate in sport and experience the resulting health and social benefits.”
The LSDF was created by 2010 Legacies Now in 2008 with funding from the Province of British Columbia. Examples of projects funded through LSDF include:
- Wachiay Friendship Centre offered a six-week basketball program in Courtenay to create a safe and supportive place for Aboriginal youth to meet and learn new skills.
- Comox Valley Ringette Association expanded its participation base through a seven-to-adult program, including coach and referee training
- Delta Gymnastics and the Tsawwassen First Nations Recreation Center developed a pilot gymnastics program to be delivered on the reserve.
- In Alert Bay, a community ball hockey league applied its funding toward the purchase of equipment, along with training for coaching and first aid volunteers
- In Kelowna, Arion Therapeutic Riding developed a therapeutic riding program for children with disabilities.
”This program is a great way to grow sport and participation opportunities at the local level,” said Comox Valley MLA Don McRae. “With this launch of the next round of applications, more groups can consider partnering with other community organizations in bringing forward innovative programming.”
A complete list of projects funded by the Local Sport Program Development Fund, since 2008, is available online: www.2010legaciesnow.com/lsdf-projects/
-30-
Media Contact:
Gillian Rhodes
Communications Manager
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 356-6334
250 888-1462 (cell)
