KidSport BC Provincial Fund 50/50

KidSport BC launched their first ever online 50/50 raffle today in hopes of raising much-needed funds to help more kids across the province experience the joy of a season of sport. Proceeds from the fundraiser will support KidSport BC’s Provincial Fund, which provides grants (up to $400) to kids from communities across BC that don’t have a KidSport chapter to help cover the cost of their sport registration fee.

Recognizing that the pandemic has amplified the economic, social and health challenges that exist in British Columbia, the organization is anticipating an increased need for KidSport grants in the coming year as sport continues to return in a greater capacity, and they want to be ready to meet this demand.

“The past couple of years have been difficult for fundraising. Many of the sectors we’ve relied on for support in the past have experienced their own challenges through the pandemic and are focusing on their own recovery, and not being able to host events has meant that our fundraising revenues have been down,” said Angela Crowther, KidSport BC’s Fundraising Manager. “We’ve been fortunate to receive support from the Province of BC to ensure we could continue granting through this difficult time, but now we need to ramp up our fundraising activities to ensure we can meet the anticipated increase in demand for grants.”

Last year KidSport BC’s Provincial Fund granted a total of $224,078 to help 639 kids participate in organized sport with one of Sport BC’s affiliated member clubs in communities like Fort Nelson, Chilliwack, Port Hardy, Creston, Kaslo, Campbell River, Hazelton and more.

“Sport BC believes in the transformative power of sport, and we’re excited about its return for our members and for kids across the province, but we also know there are many families who will struggle financially as a result of the pandemic, says Sport BC’s President & CEO, Rob Newman. “Cost shouldn’t be a barrier that prevents kids from experiencing the positive benefits of sport participation and thanks to KidSport it doesn’t have to be. Sport BC is proud to have established the KidSport program and we’re committed to ensuring funding is available for all kids who need support.

Tickets for the draw are 3 for $10, 20 for $20, and 100 for $50 and are on sale now until Friday March 18 at 11:59 pm. The final draw is scheduled for Monday March 21 at 10 am when the lucky winner will be awarded half the total jackpot. Tickets can be purchased online at kidsportbc.rafflenexus.com.

Congratulations to R. Degroot from Nanaimo, who is the lucky winner of half of the $2,960 jackpot!