Port Coquitlam, BC – Dec. 4, 2024… The City of Port Coquitlam remains committed to breaking down financial barriers, ensuring all residents can participate in its recreation programs.
Applications are now open for the 2025 intake of the City’s Financial Assistance Program at portcoquitlam.ca/financialassistance. This program provides substantial subsidies to support active, healthy lifestyles by making recreation, arts, sports, and camps more accessible.
In 2024, over 1,533 residents received more than $53,000 in subsidies, marking a 27.75 per cent increase from 2023, when over 1,200 residents benefitted from financial assistance. The program offers eligible families a 75 per cent discount on activities, including camps, and a One City Pass for free drop-in access to swimming, skating, fitness, racquetball, squash, and gym sports.
"Our Financial Assistance Program is about more than reducing costs—it’s about removing barriers to ensure everyone in Port Coquitlam can enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle. Programs like this help build a healthier, more connected city where every resident has the opportunity to participate, regardless of their financial circumstances.” said Mayor Brad West. “This represents the city taking real action and as the program continues to grow, I am proud to see the positive impact it’s making in the lives of our residents."
The City’s financial assistance program supports active lifestyles and healthy communities by offering inclusive recreation programs and services at a reduced cost for individuals. The program provides a variety of supports and resources to ensure all residents have the opportunity to get involved in recreation and arts programs. Through the Financial Assistance Program, eligible individuals can access drop-in recreation activities though a complimentary One City Pass.
Adult recipients can choose to receive a total of $200 per calendar year and a 75 per cent discount toward the cost of recreation programs and memberships. Children and youth recipients (0 – 18 years old) can also choose to receive a total of $500 per calendar year and a 75 per cent discount toward the cost of recreation programs and memberships.
"The success and growth of the Financial Assistance Program highlight our commitment to making recreation accessible to all residents.” says Cllr. Paige Petriw, council designate for community experience, celebrations, events and inclusion. “This program is a key part of creating a city where everyone belongs."
The City also offers additional supports, including:
- Free facility access for personal assistants supporting recreation patrons.
- Recreation Program Support to facilitate accessible and inclusive opportunities for children or youth in registered activities.
- Funding through Canadian Tire Jumpstart for children and youth facing socioeconomic barriers to participate in organized sports and recreation.
- Free and low-cost opportunities in swimming, skating, and arts and culture, as well as, Wilson Seniors and Youth social recreation opportunities.
- Grade 5 Get Active! and Grade 6 Stay Active! cards, providing free drop-in access to students in School District 43
For more information, email [email protected], call 604-927-7529, or apply online at portcoquitlam.ca/financialassistance.