Post-secondary students in Prince George will have another way to stay active after new sport-programs were announced by the provincial government today (Feb. 1).
The latest round of grants through the joint federal-provincial Community Sport Development Program (CSDP) we're selected for northern communities like Vanderhoof, Smithers, Hazelton, Houston and Prince George.
"Thanks to the work of community organizations, sport and physical activities are now more accessible to many British Columbians," said Steven Guilbeault, federal Minister of Canadian Heritage in a news release.
"Our government is proud to partner with the Province of British Columbia to offer better sport opportunities to all British Columbians so they can get moving and realize their full potential."
In Prince George, a new Learn to Curl program will be available in partnership with UNBC.
The CSDP is part of the BC Sport Participation Program, which is an application-based grant program funded by provincial and federal governments and are given out by viaSport.
During 2019-20, Canada and the provincial government are making matched funding totalling more than $1.2 million.
Communities, Indigenous groups and not-for-profit organizations can apply to receive grants that help them buy equipment, train leaders, officials and coaches, and teach participants sport skills.
"Our government is committed to helping people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to get involved in sport and explore their athletic potential," added Lisa Beare, B.C.'s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture in the release.
"Our local sports leagues, schools and recreation centres are key resources for people who want to take up sport and active living. Through this program, we are supporting community-level initiatives and increasing participation throughout the province."
Other northern communities received funding for the following projects:
- Running introductory curling lessons using both traditional and aided equipment in Vanderhoof
- Providing volleyball programming for girls aged 14-18 in Smithers, Hazelton and Houston
- Offering a new Learn to Curl Program for post-secondary students, in partnership with UNBC
There are two intake periods a year for the Community Sport Development Program (CSDP).
The fall 2019 intake is funding 32 projects with a total value of $80,970.
The north specifically has four programs being given a total of $10,950.
