The provincial government has approved funding for more than 60 sports organizations on Vancouver Island, including a handful in Nanaimo.
The B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport announced today that 64 community sport organizations on the Island are receiving a share of the province’s $1.5-million local sport relief fund.
Recipients include the Nanaimo Curling Centre, Nanaimo Gymnastics School, Nanaimo Rowing Club, Nanaimo Minor Softball Association, Nanaimo Hornets rugby club, Nanaimo Squash Club and two football clubs.
Brian McRory, Nanaimo Curling Centre president, said in a press release that the club is very grateful to receive “much-needed” support from the province.
“This funding will help us stay afloat financially and assist with putting the necessary health and safety measures in place so our athletes and staff can continue to participate in curling activities,” he said.
Melanie Mark, B.C. minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport, said in the release that the province has heard about the challenges and financial pressures community sports organizations are facing.
“Coaches, volunteers and board members have worked around the clock to ensure people can keep active and gain the physical and mental benefits of sport during the pandemic,” said Mark.
The fund is being co-ordinated with ViaSport B.C. and ViaSport CEO Charlene Krepiakevich said in the release that the funding will sustain organizations that have been “hit hard” by the pandemic.
“Local sport programming delivers profound benefits to the health and well-being of communities and individuals across our province,” said Krepiakevich.
editor@nanaimobulletin.com
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