RED DEER – Hockey Alberta and the Hockey Alberta Foundation are thrilled to award over $40,000 to this quarter’s Every Kid Every Community (EKEC) grant recipients. This funding enables Hockey Alberta to support 13 programs across Alberta and help nearly 700 kids hit the ice this season.
Programs funded by EKEC make hockey accessible to all by introducing new participants to the game, furthering development and reducing cost. Programs and communities receiving funding for this quarter include:
- Tsuut’ina Nation: 150 Indigenous children of Tsuut’ina Nation will enjoy the game free of cost with access to qualified instructors.
- Calgary Lebanese Association community members who are under 18 years of age will be introduced to hockey.
- Fort McMurray Minor Hockey Association has developed an inclusive hockey program for kids 5-17 years who may have mental or physical impairments. EKEC funding helps purchase equipment, sleds and skating aids.
- Bow Valley Pond Hockey is once again able to offer programming targeting at-risk youth.
- Lacombe Minor Hockey Association can supplement their female hockey program, making the program more affordable for perspective players.
As well, five associations are planning to implement “Introduction to Hockey” programs that will engage grassroots players in the sport.
The Every Kid Every Community program provides a pathway to play hockey for any child in Alberta who is interested in the sport. The goal is to provide every child in Alberta the opportunity to play hockey, have fun and, in many cases, experience the sport for the first time. Grants are awarded four times a year, with the next application deadline July 31.
