Continued support of the Every Kid Every Community Grant is helping grow the reach of hockey across Calgary. The grant enables Hockey Calgary’s First Shift program to expand its reach and create more opportunities for families to experience hockey for the first time.

The grant has provided $75,000 over three years, increasing the number of programs from six to nine across the city, inviting kids from a variety of communities and backgrounds.

The Every Kid Every Community Grant is an annual program that helps support hockey programs for kids across Alberta. The funding comes from the Hockey Alberta Foundation and the Curtis Glencross Legacy Fund, which was created in 2012 through a donation from the Curtis Glencross Roughstock Invitational Rodeo. The grant funds help local minor hockey programs enrol more kids, no matter their situation. Applications for the grant are accepted four times a year.

The impact goes beyond participation numbers, as the funding has also helped double the number of on-ice sessions from six to twelve, offering participants more time to build confidence and develop skills.

The First Shift program offers equipment, ice time**, and** additional support to families who are new to hockey. Hockey Alberta ensures there is a fun and welcoming space for kids as they build skills and confidence in the game of hockey. Hockey Calgary also works with community partners to include families from different backgrounds, making hockey more accessible for everyone.

Source: Hockey Alberta