The Region of Queens has announced a new program to remove barriers for people to be physically active.
The Recreation for All initiative will lower the cost for people who want to use municipal facilities but may not be able to afford it.
Mayor David Dagley said since council passed the motion in March, staff have been speaking with community members about making donations to support the program.
“And they have found businesses that are willing to donate and have donated to this program. So we have received about $20,000 from generous companies and individuals,” said Dagley. “We’re able to at least provide supported services at a very minor price to participants who are financially in need.”
Money from one of the major corporate donations was earmarked for a particular group.
Dexter Construction insisted the first 100 memberships to Queens Place were to go to Special Olympians from Queens County training for competition.
Dagley expects the first round of funding will support around 100 residents this year. He’s optimistic the program can continue to grow.
“We’ll raise more money as we go and hopefully we can increase the number. We may have funding to double that amount. We’ll find out as the program unfolds,” said Dagley.
While regional staff is soliciting donations and running the programs, Dagley said all the money in the program is coming from the community. The funding will enable better access to all the facilities at Queens Place as well as the North Queens Aquatic Centre and the Milton Centennial Pool.
Dagley said council recognizes the link between physical activity and improving one’s mental and social well-being and he and his fellow council members were glad they could open up the resources to more people.
“It will certainly broaden the ability of who we can serve in the Region of Queens in our recreation facilities,” said Dagley.
Reported by Ed Halverson
E-mail: edhalversonnews@gmail.com
Twitter: @edwardhalverson