The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Canadian Tire's Jump Start joins KidSport to help less fortunate kids participate in sports. Though similar in function, the programs are separate. "I really like Jump Start because a committee can make a decision quick," says Aimee Deans, Flin Flon's special events coordinator, about the local support program. This is because the process for Jump Start is one-on-one, whereas, KidSport, is run through Manitoba Sport and has a longer process. Started in June, Jump Start has assisted kids by giving $4,000 for them to play in any sport and is currently in the middle of a fundraiser which sells red tennis balls for $2 to go back into Jump Start. That fundraiser has sold 300 balls and will continue for two more weeks. "I think it's been good," says Sean Disdero, Canadian Tire manager, on the program. "It's fantastic to help kids. If we can put money back in the community, that's what we'd like to do." Disdero hopes to see the program grow every year with the support of the community and Canadian Tire. KidSport supports kids aged five to 18-years-old throughout the province as it gives financial assistance, based on need, and, through a separate application, money for equipment. "Both programs help offset regular fees," says Deans. Disdero also says that Canadian Tire pays for all administration fees for Jump Start. The next upcoming deadline for KidSport is October 15. People interested in picking up applications for both can get them at the Flin Flon and Creighton recreation offices.
