KidSport Delta鈥檚 annual Gift of Sport gala raised $53,000 to help local kids from low-income families access youth sports.

The sixth annual casino-themed fundraiser took place on Saturday, April 27 at Tsawwassen Springs, with speakers, a silent auction and gambling tables where guests vied for one of two sets of tickets to the Justin Timberlake concert at Rogers Arena two nights later.

Global BC news anchor Jason Pires was the night's emcee, with retired KidSport BC director Pete Quevillon serving as keynote speaker. Joining them were 鈥渟ports ambassadors鈥� including football legends Bobbi Singh, Claudell Louis, Jevon Cottoy and Greg Frers, and Delta Olympians Darcy Marquardt, Richard Hortness, Aaron Lattimer and Joy Frer.

All funds raised through the event will stay in Delta to benefit local kids.

"The money raised goes far beyond this one-time event; it has a lasting impact on the lives of the children we serve," KidSport Delta chair Carlene Lewall said in an email to the Reporter. "With this success, we are proud to announce that we will continue to grant $700 per child for 2024, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to pursue the sport of their choice, regardless of financial barriers.
 
"We firmly believe that sport is more than just teaching a skill 鈥� it is essential for the mental, social, emotional and overall physical well-being of our youth. Those who attended the Gift of Sport, donated and/or bid on the online auction, your support is appreciated and essential in achieving our ultimate goal of keeping kids active and healthy."

KidSport is a national program that provides financial aid to families who cannot afford to have their children participate in organized sports. Each region of B.C. has a chapter that raises and provides funds for children within their city.

The Delta chapter provides grants of up to $700 per child per calendar year to help cover the costs of registration fees so that all kids aged 18 and under in Delta can play a season of sport. Applications are open now at .

In 2023, KidSport Delta provided funding for 220 children, giving $89,500 to support local participation in youth sports 鈥� a 40 per cent increase from 2022.
The organization helped 70 kids get into soccer at a cost of $26,780, and another 34 to try gymnastics ($10,429). Other sports grant recipients took part in include hockey ($10,843 for 21 kids), football ($4,441 for 18 kids), baseball ($2,835 for 12 kids), figure skating ($3,783 for 11 kids), cheerleading ($5,535 for 11 kids) and school sports ($4,360 for nine kids).

Earlier this spring, Lewall noted that funding applications so far this year were double what had been received by that time in 2023.

鈥淭he increase we have seen in applications is quite overwhelming,鈥� Lewall said.

Looking ahead, KidSport Delta anticipates that almost $100,000 will be needed to meet grant requests in 2024 and 2025.

"However, with the continued support of our community through third-party fundraisers, annual donations, and prudent use of our reserve funds, we are confident that we will meet this need and continue to make a difference in the lives of our youth," Lewall said, adding that If any individuals or organizations are holding events and would like to fundraise for KidSport, "it would be very much appreciated."