KidSport Manitoba has announced a new partnership with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, that will allow even more kids to get off the sidelines and into the game. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are joining KidSport’s Corporate Champion Program as the official sponsor of football grants in Manitoba.
“We are extremely pleased to be partnering with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to work towards our vision of a province where all children have the opportunity to participate in sport,” said Janet McMahon, President & CEO of Sport Manitoba. “Returning to sport after living through a global pandemic is crucial for the physical and mental well-being of the youth in Manitoba. Thanks to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers even more kids will be about to experience the joys and triumphs of organized sport this year.”
Part of ensuring that all kids have the chance to play, is having the funding available to administer grants. Last year, 109 kids from across the province received a KidSport grant to play football. Football is the fourth highest funded sport in Manitoba after soccer, hockey, and gymnastics. With the rising cost of sport and the financial strains many families are experiencing because of the pandemic, KidSport anticipates the requests for funding will increase over the next year. Now, with the support of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, KidSport can strive to meet the growing demand for football grants.
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are long-standing supporters of the community both on and off the field. The club’s community programs focus on youth and address key areas including youth football, education, and leading healthy, active lives. “Supporting and growing youth football in the community is a core mandate of our club,” said Wade Miller, President & CEO of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. “This partnership will provide youth with more opportunities to access tackle and flag football, helping them learn the basics of the game while building confidence and staying active.”
KidSport believes all kids should have the opportunity to develop healthy lifestyles, no matter the financial barriers that may exist. Staying physically active helps encourage children to maintain healthy habits throughout their whole lives. The challenges that come with playing sports also teach children valuable life lessons and skills including leadership, dedication, and self-confidence. Through the power of organized sport, we enable kids and our communities to come together and thrive.
KidSport is a national not-for-profit organization. Its provincial and regional chapters provide financial assistance for registration fees so that all kids aged 18 and under can play a season of sport. In 2021, KidSport Manitoba granted $188,528, to 789 kids across the province.
