Participation in sports has been shown to have numerous physical, mental, and social benefits for children. However, the cost of participating in youth sports can be a significant barrier so we’re so happy to share these programs that provide youth sports funding for low-income Canadian families.

I will do my best to update this post as new information becomes available. Although this post will have mostly national and provincial programs I do want to mention that through the power of Google, you may also be able to find programs that cater to your community. Contact your local city and see if they can steer you in the right direction.

Breaking Down Barriers: Making Youth Sports Accessible for Low-Income Families Through Funding in Canada

Join us as we break down barriers and make youth sports accessible for low-income families in Canada. Please make sure you pay attention to cut-off dates when applying. You usually have to apply a few months ahead of time and your sports organization can help you get registration paperwork to aid in applying. Most programs ask for proof of income for the adults in the home and information on the program you plan on registering in.

Programs That Provide Youth Sports Funding for Low-Income Canadian Families

Kidsport

One of the most well-known funding options for youth sports in Canada is Kidsport. Kidsport is a national non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to children from low-income families to participate in organized sports programs. They cover the costs of registration fees up to $250 per calendar year. They can refer you to partner agencies if you need equipment. Kidsport has chapters in every province and territory in Canada, and they work with local sports organizations and community partners to ensure that all children have access to sports programs. To apply for funding through Kidsport funding click the button below and complete the online application form. Eligibility requirements vary by province and territory.

Jumpstart

Jumpstart offers Individual Child Grants to help children from low-income families participate in sports and physical activity programs. These grants provide funding for registration fees, equipment, and other related expenses for children aged 4 to 18. To be eligible for an Individual Child Grant, families must meet certain income requirements and provide proof of income. The grants are available for a wide range of sports and physical activity programs, including dance, gymnastics, martial arts, and team sports. Since the program’s inception, Jumpstart has provided funding to thousands of children across Canada, helping them to experience the many benefits of sports and physical activity.

Their Opportunity

Their Opportunity is a unique program that helps Canadian youth pay sports fees but in return, they ask that they participate in their Giveback Program where children who receive subsidies or participate in one of their core programs are asked to “pay it forward” within their community through volunteerism.  This cycle of generosity will build stronger communities through active youth.

​Ontario Growing Up Through Sports

OGUTS is a program that provides financial assistance to families in Ontario with children aged 4 to 18 to help cover the costs of participating in organized sports. The program is designed to support families who face financial barriers that may prevent their children from participating in sports, such as registration fees, equipment costs, and transportation expenses. To be eligible for OGUTS, families must meet certain income requirements, and the child must be registered in an eligible sports program. The program covers up to $200 per activity and up to a maximum of $600 per child per year.

Athletics for Kids

A4K (Athletics for Kids) is another non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to children from low-income families in British Columbia to participate in organized sports programs. A4K’s mission is to ensure that all children have access to sports programs, regardless of their financial circumstances. They cover the costs of registration fees, equipment, and other related expenses, up to a maximum of $450 per child per year. A4K works with local sports organizations and community partners to make sports accessible to all children. To learn more about A4K and their mission or support their cause and make a donation, visit their site.

There are numerous funding options available for low-income families in Canada to help make youth sports accessible. Families can find financial assistance to cover the costs of registration fees, equipment, and other related expenses. It’s important to explore all the options available and apply early to increase the chances of receiving funding. By breaking down financial barriers, more children can have the opportunity to participate in sports and experience the many benefits they provide, such as physical activity, socialization, and skill-building. Remember, every child deserves a chance to grow and thrive through sports, regardless of their family’s financial situation.

Check out these other posts in our “Helping Canadians” Series:

Free Bikes for Low-Income Canadian Children – My First Bicycle Foundation
How to Apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program in Ontario
How to Reduce Electricity Bills for Lower-Income Households in Ontario
10 Simple Tips for Saving Money on Groceries Each Month: A Guide
How the Free Enbridge Gas Home Winterproofing Program Can Save Your Wallet
Youth Sports Funding for Low-Income Canadian Families

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Aneta Alaei

Aneta is a Toronto-based mom of four that loves a good meal, great company, and learning something new. In her free time, you can find her trying to keep yet another plant alive.

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