Times are tough for everyone right now, and that means that many people are cutting back on expenses; however, no one wants to have to tell their child that they are unable to participate in their favorite sport due to financial limitations. That’s where KidSport comes in.
KidSport is a children’s charity that is in place to assist families with children ages 5-18 to ensure their child can participate in community sports programs despite financial obstacles. Individual grants of up to $750 are available per calendar year for local youth to participate in local sports programs through KidSport, with application forms available at the MAP.
Last year, over 60 applications, totaling over $27,000 came through, and each year that number increases. Currently, this year, there have been a total of 27 applications submitted and $12,500 provided to local youth; however, Angie Reddekopp, Martensville KidSport Coordinator, stated that the majority of applications are submitted in the fall with programs such as hockey and figure skating beginning.
In order to provide this opportunity to local residents, KidSport relies on support from the community through various fundraisers throughout the year. In previous years, there has been a KidSport Playhouse raffle held to raise funds, but this year, Reddekopp stated they decided to do something different.
“The playhouse fundraiser has been such an incredible way to raise money, but we decided to give that a break and switch things up. We will be doing a 50/50 fundraiser throughout August and September and will look at other options in the New Year,” Reddekopp explained.
The 50/50 tickets will be available for purchase at the MAP and at the Martensville A&W, we well as at various events in the community such as the Martensville Slo-Pitch year end tournament from August 16-18, and the Martensville A&W 100 Show & Shine.
Tickets are 3/$10 or 10/$20 and tickets must be purchased in cash. There will be a max prize of $2500 awarded to the winner, which will be announced on October 1st at 3:00pm.
“There are only a limited number of tickets available, and we could sell out sooner than later, so be sure to purchase your tickets early so you don’t miss out on the chance to win the $2500 prize,” Reddekopp added.
Thanks to previous fundraisers, and support from the community, Reddekopp noted that they have been able to grow their ability to assist local youth and because of that, they are able to sufficiently support the need of the community at this time.
“Thank you to everyone for your continued support to KidSport. It is a growing need that we see within the community every year and we are very grateful to support the children in doing what they love.”
