Sport has many benefits to children but the rising cost of living is putting pressure on many Richmond families to afford basic necessities, making enrolling a child in sports not an option.
In 2023, 355 families in Richmond applied for a KidSport grant, the third highest in B.C., following Surrey/White Rock and Vancouver. The number of applicants in the city this year is 25 per cent more than in 2022.
KidSport is a program that removes financial barriers to sports by providing grants to help cover the costs of registration fees so more children and youth can experience the joy of a season of sport.
“We are seeing a significant increase in grant applications in comparison to the past couple of years and donations are needed to ensure we can continue to meet the growing demand for support,” said Angela Crowther, KidSport BC’s director.
“We rely on donations from the public to ensure we can continue providing grants for kids in need.”
The City of Richmond also gives a grant to KidSport and in 2023 it was $20,000.
KidSport has launched its 12th annual Give the Gift of Sport fundraising campaign, calling on British Columbians to donate this holiday season and help more children participate in organized sport in the coming year. The campaign launched on Nov. 20 and runs until Jan. 8.
Sport BC created the KidSport program in 1993 to help address the challenges many families face when registering their children in organized sport.
To learn more about the campaign or donate, visit KidSport.ca/GiftofSport.
Got an opinion on this story or any others in Richmond? Email your thoughts or story tips to [email protected].
