City of Guelph

 

The City of Guelph has been committed to providing affordable recreation to residents for many years through their FAIR (Fee Assistance In Recreation) program, which supported both children and adults. In 2008, several community organizations came together to work on a joint vision of developing a new, responsive approach to a fair, equitable and centralized funding process, which would allow families access to an easier and reliable support system. The main focus of the community organizations was to ensure that if a family is truly in need and must access community support in order to take part in life-enriching programming, that available funding should be well-known, easy to access, responsive to needs, and made sustainable through advocacy.

The City of Guelph has been a key partner in that process and the development of our Free to Play Program.  “The City of Guelph is proud to support the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington. We’re particularly proud to be a partner in the Free to Play Program, which helps ensure every child has the opportunity to participate in sports and recreation programs, even if times are tough for their family. The Children’s Foundation is making life better for children, families, and our entire community.” – Guelph Mayor, Cam Guthrie

Free to Play provides a one-stop method for families to access this important support for programs like swimming, summer camp and music. Not only does the City of Guelph offer substantial financial support through a community benefit agreement, they are also committed advocates in the community in creating awareness around the need for Free to Play and gathering additional support for the program. This includes the successful application for the Healthy Kids Challenge and the work through Energize Guelph, along with advocacy groups like Growing Great Generations.

“The City of Guelph’s Youth and Recreation Services teams are proud partners and enthusiastic supporters of the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington. The Children’s Foundation is a priceless asset in our community, allowing all of our children and youth to experience the benefits, lessons and supports inherent in recreation activities.” Adam Rutherford – Supervisor of Programs and Community Development, City of Guelph  

The City of Guelph's commitment to supportive people and families living in poverty is also demonstrated through their affordable bus pass, pet licensing subsidies, support of the Neighbourhood Groups, park activation programs, and more.

We are very appreciative of their leadership in our community and their partnership with the Children's Foundation, which is integral to the success of the Free to Play Program.