Game On!
The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre Receives Funding from Manitoba Sports Opportunities Program
Winnipeg, MB – On Monday, March 25th, The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre was abuzz with excitement as Premier Greg Selinger announced funding for the Centre’s youth programs through the province’s Sports Opportunities Program.
“We know that investing in sport and recreation opportunities for kids outside of school is crucial to the well-being of our young people and the health of our neighbourhoods,” said Selinger. “We are happy to provide these grants to support community organizations that offer a variety of youth sports programs including soccer, basketball and hockey.”
The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre received $1,980 through the Sport Opportunities Program to purchase sports equipment for its youth drop-in programs.
“Our sports equipment was in very bad shape and needed to be replaced,” explained Samuel Tim, Youth Outreach Coordinator for The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre. “With the funding that was announced we will be purchasing brand new basketballs, badminton racquets, soccer balls and other sports equipment.”
Each week at the Centre over 50 youth from the surrounding neighbourhood take part in drop-in programs from 6 – 9 pm on Wednesday and Friday. During this time youth participate in sports activities such as basketball, badminton, table tennis and other social activities such as learning music and developing good relationships in a safe and accommodating atmosphere.
“The parents and youth are very appreciative of the activities we have here at The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre,” stated Tim. “Parents regularly call us to express thanks and to provide positive feedback regarding the experiences their children are having here. We are very excited to be a positive, transformative part of our community.”
Binyam, a youth who regularly comes to Centre, said he appreciates the opportunity to meet up with friends, have fun and play basketball.
“It’s pretty good, I like coming to the drop in program,” explained Binyam. “You get to meet new people, make friends, learn news skills and play basketball. I also get to volunteer at the Centre. The new equipment will help make a big difference to the youth drop-in program and my community.”
The Salvation Army thanks the Sports Opportunities Program and the Government of Manitoba for helping fund the youth drop-in program at the Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre.
If you would like to support The Salvation Army in making a difference in the lives of our youth, please call (204) 975-1033 or make a donation here.
