Two major players have joined the KidSport Trail team, as it launches its official campaign to help kids access sports and stay active.
Both Trail’s Teck Operations and Kootenay Savings Credit Union pitched in with a five-year commitment totaling $20,000 each
“Kids are the foundation of the community and we need to help them out at a young age so kids can take part in sports or activities where normally they might not be able to afford to; for us it was a no brainer to partner up with KidSport,” said Aron Burke, Kootenay Savings community relations coordinator.
The gesture was reciprocated with a plaque naming the partners “KidSport Heroes.” A fitting tag for the generous support.
“The thing about Kootenay Savings and Teck, to have that sustainability for our committee and this program is huge for us,” said KidSport vice-chair Gord Menelaws.
“We always said we didn’t want to go knocking on doors and to get a five-year commitment and to know that we have that money to work with has been key for us.”
Jason and Lauren Bay have also indicated their support of the program, said KidSport board member Eleanor Gattafoni Robinson.
“Isn’t it wonderful that two local individuals that have gotten to the pinnacle of their sport and won, as a recipient, is giving back.”
KidSport recently helped two local kids receive a whole new set of hockey gear through the NHL Players’ Association’s Goals and Dreams Fund.
“You know what, we’re thrilled with that; we said, ‘Even if we got one we’d be thrilled,’” said Menelaws.
The NHLPA donated five sets of gear for area hockey players and having two players access the program was a successful first step in raising awareness and promoting the KidSport program.
“Maybe that’s the function, people understanding our role and getting better known,” said KidSport chair Betty Anne Marino.
“This money might not be available to us every year but we’re so new, people might not even be aware but I think they’re learning, and aware that we’re out there. If they can start turning to us if they need help, that’s awesome.”
KidSport funds up to $200 per year per child to register for one or more sports of their choosing. If they want to play hockey and soccer, they can split the funds between the two registrations.
Monies go to the sports organization not directly to the families to keep it above board.
Starting Monday applications will be available at the Trail Aquatic and Leisure Centre for families who wish to apply for the program.
“It’s highly confidential stuff,” said Gattafoni Robinson. “It’s a wonderful thing for children who didn’t have an opportunity to play sport, to have an opportunity to do something they excel at.”
To donate or apply for Greater Trail KidSport contact Trail Aquatic Centre at 364-0852.