http://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?archive=&item=11010

March 14, 2011

'First Sports' Program Applications Available Now

Young people, families and communities will enjoy improved sport and recreational opportunities and facilities, and the work of parent volunteers will be supported thanks to the new First Sports Program for recreation and sports clubs and their teams, Premier Greg Selinger announced today.

“Community and recreation centres are important hubs for children and families,” said Selinger. “Investing in children by supporting the places where they are often first introduced to sports and activities is what First Sports is all about.”

The $1-million First Sports program will provide grants of up to $10,000 for community and recreation clubs and affiliated teams to purchase shared sports equipment such as hockey nets and baseball bases, as well as maintenance items such as grounds-keeping equipment. The program will also help community clubs serving youth to undertake small capital projects to maintain and improve the condition of their facilities.

“Communities come together at recreational facilities and having this support available will certainly make a difference,” said Marlene Amell, executive director of the General Council of Winnipeg Community Centres. “We are pleased to see the Manitoba government taking the initiative to ensure community centre sports programs are supported.”

The First Sports Program will help volunteers and staff continue to provide opportunities for families across the province to play and grow, the premier noted.

Applications for First Sports are available today at community centre offices across the province and online at www.gov.mb.ca/housing/cpp/index.html.