From coast to coast to coast, soccer is bringing Canadians together and inspiring the next generation. The Government of Canada is investing in local communities and ensuring that kids and youth have the opportunity to get involved, stay active and discover a lifelong love of sport.
Today, the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport), visited Guildford Heights Park to highlight $2.165 million in Government of Canada funding for Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities' national initiative to build 25 community soccer pitches across Canada by 2029. Surrey is now home to the first Jumpstart community soccer pitch in Western Canada, marking an important milestone in expanding access to sport.
From neighbourhood matches to dreams of representing Canada on the world stage, these free-to-access soccer pitches will give kids and youth a safe place to play, belong and build confidence. Developed in partnership with municipalities, local organizations and community members, every pitch is designed to meet the unique needs of each community. At a time when Canada is welcoming the world through sport, this initiative demonstrates how investments in community infrastructure can help translate the momentum of major international sporting events into lasting benefits for Canadians.
This support builds on the Government of Canada's $755 million generational investment to strengthen Canada's sport system from playground to podium. At its heart, these investments are about expanding access to sport, helping athletes and sport organizations thrive, and building a stronger sport system that reaches every corner of the country.
