KidSport Calgary says demand for help up 80 per cent, but donations down

CALGARY – A Calgary non-profit group that helps kids who can’t afford to play sports is facing a record amount of need.

KidSport Calgary says the economic downturn is a major factor, with more people needing help.

Executive director Kevin Webster says the group is desperate to find a way to help 5,000 kids, which represents about an 80 per cent increase in the number applications for financial assistance.

The group is about $1.7 million shy of what is needed.

More than 1,300 kids have been helped so far this year.

Webster says anyone who’s participated in sport understands the value of what it can provide for youth.

“One of the reasons I took this job, is the ability to make that opportunity possible,” Webster said Monday. “It’s heartbreaking, and it turns my stomach just thinking about it.”

He calls it “record demand” for KidSport programs, adding they have been able to make a go of things in the past thanks to the generosity of Calgarians, but continued low oil and gas prices resulting in job losses are taking its toll this time around.

(CHQR, CFFR)