Youngsters in Sylvan Lake whose parents can’t afford to allow them to participate in sports activities or youth groups can have an opportunity to receive the financial boost they need through Jumpstart.
Jumpstart, a Canadian Tire initiative, is a national charitable program that helps financially disadvantaged youth participate in organized sport and recreation. Through the program, registration, equipment and/or transportation costs are covered.
Canadian Tire in Sylvan Lake is one of more than 310 chapters dedicated to making the program successful.
Office manager Tanya Adams said the store offers various promotions for the program and all money raised through the Sylvan Lake store stays in the community.
“It’s a program that helps parents who can’t afford to enroll their child in sports. We help make it happen through the program. It is for the people here in Sylvan Lake. The money stays here.”
Sylvan Lake chapter member Monique Pummings said $6,000 has been disbursed for registration fees and equipment through the program, which was started in June.
“There is an immense need here,” she said. “We have received so many applications.”
Pummings said the program is available for youngsters aged four to 18 years of age. As well as sports, applications are received for financial assistance to join youth groups such as Girl Guides or Scouts.
Pummings said applications are available at Sylvan Lake Aquatic Centre.
As well as in-store fundraisers, Jumpstart is funded through a variety of local events and anyone may make a donation.
Money raised through Canadian Tire customer donations goes directly to the program.
The funding each child receives is based on chapter budgets and demand. Grants are provided directly to the non-profit or charitable organization.
To help support Jumpstart, individuals may make a donation, host their own event in support of the program, or support a fundraising event.