Having the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of organized sports is an important factor in the development of a child. Organized sport helps children to be physically active, improve their self-esteem and allows them to build positive relationships.
Unfortunately, for some children in Ponoka, financial barriers prevent them from playing in organized sports.
KidSport Ponoka, a not-for-profit volunteer organization, was established this year to help provide financial assistance for registration fees to kids aged 18 and under. Through a confidential application process, KidSport Ponoka provides grants so children can play organized sport in Ponoka. KidSport Ponoka is part of KidSport Canada and joins more than 177 other Kidsport Canada chapters across Canada.
“We saw a need for this type of program in Ponoka as youth were missing out on sporting activities due to family finances. The volunteers involved with KidSport Ponoka believe that kids deserve the opportunity to play,” said Jackie MacGregor, chairperson for KidSport Ponoka.
“Quite often, the involvement of children in sports can make the difference in a youth at risk succeeding later in life as an adult,” added RCMP Staff Sgt. Cameron Chisholm, another volunteer with KidSport Ponoka.
As with many non-profit organizations, KidSport Ponoka relies upon the generosity of the community to function. All kids should have the opportunity to play and the community’s financial support helps KidSport Ponoka achieve that goal. To date, support from Ponoka FCSS, Seafield Social Workers, Lions Club, Ponoka Professional Pharmacy, Creative Snaps, Midget B Hockey and the upcoming ATB Financial Outlaw Roundup has allowed KidSport Ponoka to commence providing assistance to Ponoka children.
For further information on KidSport Ponoka and the eligibility criteria for assistance, contact (403) 704-5450 or go to www.kidsport.ab.ca and select the Ponoka chapter.
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