More than 140 non-profit community sport and recreation organizations, community clubs, sport associations and community facilities serving young people in Manitoba will receive funding through the province’s new First Sports Program. This announcement was made by Premier Greg Selinger.
“So many families have seen their kids grow up on soccer fields and in hockey arenas,” Selinger said. “First Sports recognizes the importance of sport to the development of our children and the health of our communities. By supporting sports and recreation programs and facilities in our communities, we help provide kids and families with opportunities to learn physical and social skills and have fun.”
The First Sports Program provides grants up to $10,000 to sports and recreation projects that create stronger communities and enhance the lives of young Manitobans through investment in sport and recreation infrastructure and equipment, the premier said.
A total of $1 million will go toward projects which improve youth participation and access to sport such as youth football equipment, baseball diamond upgrades, mini-soccer nets, junior curling rocks, arena ice-plant and condenser replacements, gymnastic mats and vaults, bleachers, ice edgers, cross-country ski-trail groomers and sport-training equipment.
“The equipment and supplies these grants will provide to local teams and clubs will get more kids on the field, improve training opportunities and kids’ overall experience in their sport,” Housing and Community Development Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross said. “I would like to commend the parents, caregivers and volunteers who contribute thousands of hours every year supporting teams and athletes. These grants will support the good work you are already doing building your families and your communities.”
A list of projects that have received a First Sports Program grant is available at www.manitoba.ca/housing/cpp.
