Children in Wetaskiwin, Red Deer and other parts of central Alberta can now receive free sports equipment, thanks to a partnership between Alberta RCMP and Sport Central.
Sport Central is an Alberta-based charity that collects, repairs and redistributes gently used sports equipment to families facing financial hardship. As part of the partnership, Sport Central is supplying ball kits to frontline RCMP officers at participating detachments.
Each kit contains a variety of deflated sports balls and a pump. Officers keep the kits in their patrol vehicles and distribute the equipment to children they encounter during regular patrols, providing a way to connect and build positive relationships with local youth.
In May, 126 ball kits—containing a total of 1,134 balls—were distributed across 32 Alberta RCMP detachments in central Alberta.
The RCMP is also working with Sport Central to collect donated equipment and redirect unclaimed, seized bicycles from local detachments to children in need.
“Giving children access to sports not only improves their well-being but also improves the overall well-being of a community,” said Supt. Mike McCauley, officer in charge of crime reduction.
“When youth are engaged in healthy, structured activities, their well-being, and the well-being of the entire community, is improved. Over time, this creates a stronger, safer Alberta for everyone. That’s why we believe every child deserves the chance to play. With Sport Central, we’re helping make that a reality.”
Since last year, detachments in St. Albert, Wetaskiwin, Parkland, Chateh, High Level, and Peace River have distributed more than 2,600 pieces of sports equipment to schools, community leagues and individuals.
“Sport Central partnering with the RCMP to help rural Alberta’s youth gain access to the benefits of sport is such a great fit,” said Gene Principe, Sport Central board member.
“The more kids we can get equipped to be active in the sport they love, the more we’ll see increased physical and mental health in future generations.”
For more information or to get involved, visit Sport Central’s website.
With information from the Alberta RCMP.