OTTAWA, April 21, 2009 - The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), today announced increased support to help children in financial need participate in sport and recreation.
"Our Government believes that all children should have the opportunity to get active and participate in organized sport and other physical activities," said Minister of State Lunn. "This funding will create even more opportunities for young Canadians to get involved in sport. The Jumpstart program is making a difference in communities across Canada by helping our young people become more active, connect with one another, and experience the power of sport."
"We know that one in three parents in Canada cannot afford to enroll their kids in sports and recreation, and so we created Canadian Tire Jumpstart to address this issue of financial barriers to access," said Dan Thompson, President, Canadian Tire Jumpstart. "The success of the program relies on the generosity and dedication of community and government leaders, and we are thrilled to have the support of this government. Today's donation will go a long way to help kids in financial need across the country experience the benefit of participating in sports and recreation, and I thank the Minister of State for his continued support of this valuable program."
The Government of Canada is tripling funding from $250,000 to $750,000 in 2008-2009 to help Jumpstart continue to deliver on its commitment to support more underprivileged children in sports and recreation. The Government is committed to playing a leading role in supporting young Canadians and helping them access opportunities to get active and participate in sport.
Canadian Tire Jumpstart is a charitable program that helps kids in financial need, aged 4 to 18, participate in organized sports and recreation such as hockey, dance, soccer, and swimming. This allows them to develop important life skills, self-esteem, and confidence. To date, there are 279 Canadian Tire Jumpstart chapters in communities across the country.
Information:
Michelle Yao
Office of the Honourable Gary Lunn, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-3411
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
