News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Sport and recreation organizations that have been impacted financially by the pandemic are reminded that they can apply to the COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Sport Organizations.

“We understand the challenges that the sector has been facing in trying to adapt to the realities caused by the pandemic,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Tammy Scott-Wallace. “Enormous efforts have been made across the province by many volunteers to provide safe opportunities to return to play.”

Through a partnership with Sport Canada, temporary funding totalling $2.7 million was made available this fall to provide short-term financial relief that will help organizations maintain jobs, support business continuity, and provide short-term operational viability.

“This support from the Government of Canada will help New Brunswick amateur sport organizations continue to support athletes, and help retain jobs,” said president of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada Dominic LeBlanc, who is also minister of intergovernmental affairs. “It will help alleviate the financial pressures of affected organizations during these unprecedented times.”

LeBlanc spoke on behalf of Canadian Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault.

Non-profit local sport organizations can also access the fund to offset program costs to deliver safe and inclusive opportunities.

As of Oct. 1, more than $750,000 had been distributed to 58 local and provincial organizations.

“Sport and recreation are vital for the health and wellbeing of our communities and we are committed to doing everything we can to support the sector into the future,” said Scott-Wallace. “This funding will provide some certainty of funding to ensure they can remain viable through this difficult time.”

More information on the fund, including application details, is available online.