More residents across the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) are participating in recreation, sport, arts, cultural, and wellness activities thanks to the Municipality's recreation assistance programs.
A year-end report presented to MODL's Policy and Strategy Committee highlighted the impact of the PRO Kids and PRO Fund programs during the 2025-26 fiscal year. Together, the programs provided more than $118,000 in financial assistance and supported nearly 500 activity registrations for children, youth, and adults throughout the municipality.
"Recreation, sport, arts, and cultural activities contribute to healthier individuals and stronger communities," said Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile. "These programs help remove financial barriers and ensure more residents have the opportunity to participate, regardless of their circumstances."
The majority of funding was delivered through PRO Kids, which helps children and youth access activities that might otherwise be out of reach. During the year, the program provided more than $104,500 in support, funding 462 registrations, an increase over the previous year.
Popular activities supported through PRO Kids included music lessons, dance, camps, gymnastics, and horseback riding.
"Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect through recreation and community activities," added McLean-Wile. "PRO Kids helps families access experiences that build confidence, develop skills, and create lasting benefits for young people."
The Municipality's PRO Fund program, which provides support for adults facing financial barriers, distributed more than $14,200 and assisted with 33 activity registrations during the year. Fitness memberships were the most frequently funded activity, followed by music programs and other recreation opportunities.
Recent testimonials from participants show appreciation:
Thank you so much!!! I hope this program isn’t affected by the provincial cuts. It would be very disheartening!
Thank you for all the help and support. Our daughter is doing so well with help from this program!!
Thank you a million times over for allowing our children to have these experiences. 💜
Thank you SOO much!! This just made my morning!
This gym has given me back my confidence, my social needs, and putting my health first for the first time in many years. I am aware not everyone is approved, but I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for it.
Community partnerships make a difference
The report also recognized the important role community partners play in helping residents access recreation opportunities.
In addition to municipal funding, PRO Kids receives support from organizations including the United Way of Lunenburg County, the Rotary Club of Lunenburg, local businesses, schools, community groups, and individual donors. Recreation, sport, arts, and cultural providers also contribute by reserving spaces for PRO Kids participants.
Residents interested in supporting the program can make donations at the Municipal Office. Income tax receipts are available for financial contributions over $10.
Applications for both PRO Kids and PRO Fund are accepted year-round. Residents can learn more about eligibility and apply online by visiting Pro Fund and Pro Kids.
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