Give the gift of sport this holiday season

Donations will help more kids with a disability get off the sidelines and on to the field of play

OTTAWA, Nov. 29, 2016 /CNW/ - Inspired by our Canadian Paralympians, many kids with a disability dream of the podium and one day representing Canada.

But sometimes, finances can be a hurdle.

That's why this year's fundraising campaign by the Paralympic Foundation of Canada, called "Giving All Kids A Sporting Chance," supports the Parasport Jumpstart Fund. The fund supports the costs of sports and recreational programs for children with a disability aged four to 18, who are financially disadvantaged. Funds may be used towards registration, transportation and equipment.

"The cost of adapted sports equipment, for example, from the beginner to elite levels, can be in the thousands of dollars," said David Eng, a two-time Paralympic gold medallist in wheelchair basketball. "Today, on Giving Tuesday, and throughout this holiday season, I invite Canadians to join us in helping more kids with a disability get off the sidelines and on to the field of play."

Donations are tax-deductible. Premier partner Canadian Tire Corporation has pledged to match donations up to $25,000. To contribute, please visit: paralympic.ca/giving-all-kids-a-sporting-chance.

"Success isn't only about competing and winning medals – winning the race begins with ensuring that all Canadians can imagine themselves at the start line, regardless of ability," added Karen O'Neill, CEO of the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

"Our thanks to Canadian Tire and all our supporters in helping get more children with a disability on to playgrounds, courts, fields, rinks and tracks - and maybe one day on to the Paralympic podium, if that is where their dreams propel them."

About the Canadian Paralympic Committee: Paralympic.ca

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SOURCE Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC)

Video with caption: "Canadian Tire "Wheels"". Video available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFuwUiHo-WI

Image with caption: "Two-time Paralympic gold medallist wheelchair basketball player David Eng with young athlete. (CNW Group/Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC))". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20161129_C7652_PHOTO_EN_826041.jpg

Alison Korn, Senior Manager, Media Relations and Communications, Canadian Paralympic Committee, Tel: [phone] ext. 243 / Cell: 613-298-4927, Email: [email protected]