$100,000 Donation Expands Access to Recreation Programs for Local Youth

In celebration of Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada this past weekend, the Moncton Wildcats Hockey Club proudly presented $100,000 to three local youth programs: Riverview P.R.O. Kids, Dieppe-Memramcook P.R.O. Kids, and MYRAP (Moncton Youth Recreation Assistance Program).

This contribution will create lasting opportunities for children and youth across the region by helping to remove financial barriers that can prevent participation in sports, arts, and recreation. Since 2011, J.D. Irving and the Moncton Wildcats have collectively contributed over $930,000 to P.R.O. Kids programs across the region, supporting thousands of children and youth in accessing sport, arts, and recreation opportunities.

“Thanks to this level of support, children in our community can access programs they might not otherwise be able to afford,” said Ash Arrowsmith, Community Recreation Coordinator for Riverview P.R.O. Kids. “All children deserve the opportunity to build confidence, meet new friends, and explore their interests in a safe, welcoming environment.”

Jonathan Pitre, Community Development Officer for the City of Moncton (MYRAP), emphasizes the broader impact: “This support is much more than financial aid; it is a driver of equality for our communities. It allows Greater Moncton youth to participate actively, ensuring that talent and passion are never hindered by economic constraints.”

For Tristian Gaudet, President of P.R.O. Jeunesse Dieppe-Memramcook, the donation hits close to home: “I know firsthand how transformative this program is. As a kid, P.R.O. Jeunesse allowed me to thrive and access activities during a time when my family was experiencing financial difficulties. Thanks to this donation, we can continue our mission and offer the youth of our community a level of participation that will have a significant impact on their lives, just as it did on mine.”

Riverview P.R.O. Kids, administered by the Town of Riverview, assists children and youth up to age 18 in overcoming financial barriers to participating in organized activities. Since its launch in 2001, more than 9,095 local kids have taken part in programs of their choice with assistance from P.R.O. Kids thanks to support from community partners, local businesses, groups, and individual donors.

Applications for Spring programs open next month. For more information, visit www.townofriverview.ca/prokids.

Photo – Left to Right:
Catherine Blondin – Executive Director, Dieppe-Memramcook PRO Kids
Tristian Gaudet – President, Dieppe-Memramcook PRO Kids
Jonathan Pitre – Community Development Officer, City of Moncton, MYRAP
Alec Rozsnaki – Senior Director, Fund Development and Philanthropy, YMCA, MYRAP
Ash Arrowsmith – Community Recreation Coordinator, Riverview PRO Kids
Robert Irving – Owner & President, Moncton Wildcats Hockey Club
 

About PRO Kids Riverview:
PRO Kids is a community program administered by the Town of Riverview that ensures all children and youth have the opportunity to participate in sport, arts, and recreation programs regardless of financial limitations.  For more information, visit www.townofriverview.ca/prokids.