North Vancouver, August 12, 2025 – KidSport North Shore is reaching out to the community for urgent support as the demand for financial assistance to help local youth participate in organized sports continues to rise. The chapter has seen a substantial increase in applications over the past few years, and the growing demand has put additional strain on volunteers to keep you with the volume and fundraising need.
“KidSport North Shore is seeing an overwhelming increase in the number of kids applying for funding, and the demand shows no sign of slowing down,” says Angela Crowther, KidSport BC’s Director. “It is becoming increasingly difficult for the chapter’s fundraising efforts to match the demand. Without more support, the chapter may be forced to limit funding or pause their granting program entirely.”
Over the last few years, KidSport North Shore has experienced a dramatic uptick in applications that saw their annual funding distribution balloon to more than $105,000 in 2024, compared to $48,000 the previous year, and just $21,000 in 2022. That’s more than a 500% increase in just three years. As a result, the chapter recently decreased their maximum grant per child per year from $600 to $400 in an effort to make their limited resources stretch further.
The challenges KidSport North Shore is facing are not unique to the chapter. Across the province, several other KidSport chapters, especially in the Lower Mainland, are experiencing similar increases in application volumes. Families are struggling with the increased cost of living, and other financial pressures, and more are turning to organizations like KidSport for support.
“We know the impact that sports can have on a young person’s life – from fostering teamwork to building confidence and creating lifelong friendships,” says Crowther. “Donor support is urgently needed to ensure that the chapter can continue to support kids in North and West Vancouver so they have the opportunity to experience those benefits.”
Donations to KidSport North Shore directly benefit local children and families, staying within the community to support those who need it most. Individuals, local businesses, and organizations are being encouraged to contribute in any way they can. Most donations are eligible for tax deductions and can be made online at Donate – KidSport British Columbia.
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About KidSport BC
The KidSport program aims to remove financial barriers to sport participation by providing grants to help cover the costs of registration fees. The program is intended to help increase participation numbers for Sport BC members and their local clubs by providing grants to help cover the costs of sport registration fees so more children and youth can experience the joy of a season of sport. KidSport is a Registered Canadian Amateur Athletic Association (“RCAAA”) with charitable status and can issue tax receipts to donors. Learn more at kidsportcanada.ca/british-columbia or follow us @KidSportBC.
About Sport BC
Sport BC believes in the power of sport and is committed to building stronger communities through positive sport experiences. Our goal is to enhance and support sport participation in British Columbia ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Sport BC supports nearly 80 member organizations through our signature programs KidSport BC, BC Amateur Sport Fund, and BC Women and Sport, and through our services Sport BC Insurance, and Payroll and Group Benefits. Learn more at sportbc.com or follow us @SportBC.
Media contacts:
Allison Mailer Angela Crowther
Vice President Operations, Sport BC KidSport BC, Director
[email protected] [email protected]
778-839-8576 604-839-3551