A major Canadian corporation’s major fundraising initiative that helps Greater Trail kids participate in sport is building to a lofty crescendo on May 25.
Canadian Tire stores across Canada are helping families with financial barriers get their children involved in sports through its Red Ball campaign and Jumpstart program,.
“We’re really excited about it, it’s going to be great,” said Trail Canadian Tire manager Lee-Ann Lajeunesse.
“All the Canadian Tires across Canada raise money for the Jumpstart charity and every dollar that we raise for the charity on that day gets matched by the corporation.”
Lajeunesse has rallied the Canadian Tire troops and the store at 8238 Hwy 3B is having a barbeque and car wash May 25 in the store parking lot with local RCMP and firefighters also participating in the event.
More importantly, all the funds raised by the Trail Canadian Tire store stays in the community and will go directly to helping young Greater Trail athletes register for a sport, pay for equipment, and/or transportation.
“We had the Red Ball promotion going all month long, and we actually have different promotions like that all year round and the money gets donated to Jumpstart, but during the month of May they actually will match the funds,” said Lajeunesse. “It’s really nice, and I was one of those kids, so it really means a lot to me.”
Kids who are able to participate in organized sport and recreation, outside school hours, gain many short and long term benefits including increased self esteem, greater self confidence, leadership skills, and better grades.
“The benefits of kids participating in sports affects their entire lives,” said Johnny Misley, President, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities in a release. “Jumpstart is dedicated to removing barriers so financially disadvantaged children can simply participate, and ultimately pusue their dreams.”
Despite the financial hardships many Canadian families face, there is a way to get kids into the game, no matter what barrier. Canadian Tire Jumpstart has helped 570,000 (and counting) children participate in the sport of their choice.
Families can access the Jumpstart program by going to jumpstart.canadiantire.ca and download an application, or contact the Canadian Tire store.