A person would be hard-pressed to find a bursary for kids aimed solely at arts and culture.
That’s why a new program started this year at Ponoka Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) looks to fill the gap that’s missing for kids activity funding.
The idea came from the Read My Hips dance troupe, explained Shannon Boyce-Campbell, FCSS executive director. The group hosted a dance fundraiser last year and donated the funds, about $4,100, to Ponoka FCSS for this very purpose.
With a variety of programs for sports already available to kids, the new program engages a different group of youths. “It’s celebrating that kids are very diverse in their activities,” says Boyce-Campbell.
“We’re excited because we know there’s drama and art lessons and music lessons,” she added.
Read My Hips spokesperson, Andrea Ramage, said the troupe embraced the idea to put the money to this new bursary intended, “To create opportunities and alleviate barriers for children.”
She suggests a program like this fills a space in funding for children and her hope is to see other groups or individuals continue to add money so the program can continue. “That seems like it would be something valuable.”
Eligibility
Individual youths or families can access the funds if it is not sports based. Programs like KidSport, JumpStart and Sports Central already take into account sports or team sports activities.
The applicant must be a resident of the Town of Ponoka or the eastern area of Ponoka County. An individual is eligible for $250 while a family is eligible for $500 annually.
For more information contact FCSS at 403-783-4462.