Saskatchewan Kids return to play!
Thanks to the strong number of people in Saskatchewan getting vaccinated against COVID-19, Saskatchewan residents will once again be able to participate in outdoor team sports and activities as part of Step 1 of the Re-opening Roadmap.
Sport participants must continue to abide by current public health restrictions such as capacity limitations for outdoor gatherings. Coaches, officials, umpires, referees and players who are not on the field are not required to wear masks under the public health order. Individuals who are not feeling well should not attend or participate.
“This is a great step toward getting back to normal and it is encouraging that we will be able to see our children back participating in the outdoor team sports and activities they are so passionate about,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Laura Ross said. “With the Active Families Benefit, children’s sports and activities will be more affordable for families across Saskatchewan. Participation in sports and recreational activities is a key part of building communities and developing Saskatchewan youth.”
The Active Families Benefit will provide families with an annual income of less than $60,000 up to $150 per year, per child or $200 per year, per child for children who are eligible for the federal Child Disability Tax Credit. This benefit helps with the costs associated with enrolling children in sport and recreation activities.
This investment is part of the 2021-22 Budget and will be retroactive to January 1, 2021. Parents who enroll their children in sport, culture and recreation activities in the 2021 calendar year are therefore reminded to keep their receipts so they may claim the benefit with their 2021 tax filings.
As Saskatchewan residents continue to Stick it to Covid, children and young adults will be able to enjoy their favourite outdoor sport leagues, contributing to their overall health, wellness and quality of life. Organized indoor sports and recreational activities will begin with Step 2 of the Re-Open Roadmap, which is scheduled to start on June 20.
Saskatchewan residents who have not done so are encouraged to get their COVID-19 vaccine and to get their second dose when they are eligible.
For more information on the Active Families Benefit visit the frequently asked questions at https://saskatchewan.ca/residents/parks-culture-heritage-and-sport/sport-and-recreation/programs-andsupports or call 306-798-9043.
For more information on the re-opening of sports and recreation and guidelines involved, visit https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-providerresources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/reopen-saskatchewan-plan/guidelines/outdoor-sports-and-activities-guidelines.
Photo by Kate Winquist