Recreation Fee Subsidy

children playing on splashpad

The City of Peterborough offers financial assistance to eligible children, families and adults for a variety of programs offered within the City limits. For county residents, discounted membership options are available, which provides access to a number of drop-in programs and discounts on certain City-run recreational programming.

Do you need assistance with your application?

If you require assistance with your application email rec@peterborough.ca or call 705-742-0050 ext. 1837 to set up an appointment with one of our Recreation Program Assistants.

Recreation Program Subsidy  

The Recreation Program Subsidy assists low-income individuals, and families, and those receiving social assistance with registration costs for recreational programs offered, such as day camps, sport, and recreational activities. You can apply for multiple programs at once, for one or more participants. The maximum subsidy per person is $100 or $200 per year depending on the low-income cut-off per household. Applicants are required to be residents within the City of Peterborough. 

Children’s Assistance (max age 17): this program will provide up to $200 per year (based on household income) per child for sport, aquatic, recreational and camp programs offered by the City of Peterborough, and by other organizations within the City limits. 

Adult Assistance (age 18+): this program will provide up to $200 per year (based on household income) per individual for sport, aquatic, or recreational programs that are offered by Peterborough Recreation at City facilities such as the Sport & Wellness Centre, Healthy Planet Arena, and McDonnel Street Community Centre. View programs. 

Subsidized Membership

The Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre offers subsidized membership rates for eligible participants to access the facility. Eligibility is based on household income, with applications accepted for City and County residents. Membership options include: 

Individual Membership (age 25 to 84): this membership provides you access to the Sport & Wellness Centredrop-in programs such as fitness classes, public swimming, and sports, and discounts on qualifying registered adult programs taking place at the Centre. 

One Adult/Family Membership: this membership provides adults and dependents (max age 22, must reside at the same address) with access to the Sport & Wellness Centredrop-in programs such as fitness classes (age 12+), public swimming, and sports, and discounts on qualifying registered programs taking place at the Centre including Stop N’ Play, swimming lessons, family programming, and more.  

FAQ's and Other Sport Subsidy opportunities

Applying for a Recreation Program Subsidy

 Eligibility criteria
To be eligible, you must reside within the City of Peterborough and meet the financial criteria in the low-income cut off chart, or be receiving Ontario Works or ODSP.
 Low-income cut-off chart
Family SizeLow income cut-off (per household)Subsidy 
Up to 5

Up to $39,668

$200

Up to 5

$39,669 to $43,993

$100

6

Up to $43,993 

$200

6

$43,994 to $48,317

$100

7 or more

Up to $48,317

$200

7 or more

$48,318 to $52,640

$100

 Eligible Programs
 Programs eligible for the Recreation Program Subsidy include:

The following programs are not eligible for the Recreation Program Subsidy:

  • Kawartha Gymnastics - located in Selwyn (outside of the City limits)
  • Champions Gymnastics - located in Cavan Monaghan (outside of the City limits)
  • YMCA programs - provide their own financial assistance program

To find out if the location of a program is eligible please review the City Map, which indicates boundary lines.

  City of Peterborough Recreation Programs

You may apply to receive the Recreation Program Subsidy prior to program start, to support registration fees. Fees beyond the approved $100, or $200 are required to be paid up front prior at the time of registration.

  • Completion and/or approval of this application does not guarantee a reserved spot in a City of Peterborough Recreation registered program.

  • Participants are responsible for registering for the programs they are interested in, according to standard registration dates and procedures.

  • If the application is approved, you are responsible for completing the registration for the programs you have requested by visiting the Sport & Wellness Centre and registering at the front desk. The amount of subsidy that you are approved for will be applied directly to your registration. You are responsible for paying the difference owing after the subsidy has been applied at the time of registration.

  • You may apply to receive the Registration Program Subsidy after program start, within 30 days of registering with proof of receipt.

Other Recreation organizations within City limits

You may apply to receive the Recreation Program Subsidy prior to program start, to support registration fees. Fees beyond the approved $100, or $200 are required to be paid up front prior at the time of registration.

  • Participants are responsible for registering for the programs they are interested in, according to standard registration dates and procedures within the organization.
  • If the application is approved, you will receive a Verification of Subsidy letter that is to be provided to the organization. Funds will be transferred to the organization directly. 
  • You may apply to receive the Recreation Program Subsidy after program start, within 30 days of registering with proof of receipt.

Application

To apply online, you need an email address and the following documents in digital format such as a PDF or 'image' file for everyone 18 and older residing in your household. Fields will appear throughout the form for you to upload a PDF or photo of these documents:

  • Proof of income (Notice of Assessment or Canada Child Tax Benefit statement showing annual Family Net Income). Pay stubs will not be accepted.
  • Proof of Social Assistance (Statement of Assistance) for anyone in receipt of Ontario Works or ODSP.
  • Proof of address in the City of Peterborough (i.e. rent receipt, property tax assessment or official residential bill)
  • Program name, course code and start date.
    • Program information for City programs can be found in the Fun Guide or by browsing the categories found on our Registration Page.
  • Registration receipt (if you are requesting a reimbursement)

If you meet the eligibility criteria, please complete our online application. If you require assistance, contact one of our Recreation Program Assistants by email rec@peterborough.ca or call 705-742-0050 ext. 1837.

Program Subsidy Application

Applying for a Subsidized Membership

Membership rates
  • Individual Membership (age 25 to 84): $27.50 per month + HST
  • One Adult/Family Membership*: $50 per month + HST
    *Up to 2 adults residing at the same home address
    *Dependents must be under age 22 and reside at the same home address

Memberships start on either the 1st with a full payment, or will be prorated for the starting month that is determined by when the application is submitted.

You can also choose to pay for your membership up front for the year. Payment is required prior to accessing the Centre.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible, you must meet the household income criteria below, or be receiving Ontario Works or ODSP.

  • Household of up to 5 family members: Net income up to $39,668 annually 
  • Household of up to 6 family members: Net income up to $43,993 annually 
  • Household of 7+ family members: Net income up to $48,317 annually
Application

To apply online, you need an email address and the following documents in digital format such as a PDF or 'image' file for everyone 18 and older residing in your household. Fields will appear throughout the form for you to upload a PDF or photo of these documents:

  • Proof of income (Notice of Assessment or Canada Child Tax Benefit statement showing annual Family Net Income). Pay stubs will not be accepted.
  • Proof of Social Assistance (Statement of Assistance) for anyone in receipt of Ontario Works or ODSP.
  • Void cheque or Pre-Authorized Payment form from your bank.
    • This form allows us to withdraw the monthly membership fees from your bank account.
    • Membership must be paid monthly through this process.
    • Payments occur on the 1st of the month.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, please complete our online application. If you require assistance, contact one of our Recreation Program Assistants by email rec@peterborough.ca or call 705-742-0050 ext. 1837.

Subsidized Membership Application

Find out what programs are available to you

 I live in the City of Peterborough and meet the low income eligibility requirements above

 Below is a list of programs available to you:

 I live in the City of Peterborough and receive Ontario Works or ODSP

  Below is a list of programs available to you:

 I live in the County and meet the low income eligibility requirements above
 Below is a list of programs available to you:
 I live in the County and receive Ontario Works or ODSP
 Below is a list of programs available to you:

 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I receive Subsidy for a Parent and Tot class?
Yes, subsidy can be used for Parent and Tot classes such as skating lessons, gymnastics, swimming, etc.
 If I already paid for a program, can I be reimbursed?
Yes, you may be eligible for a reimbursement, based on availability of funds. You must submit your application and reimbursement within thirty (30) days of payment.
Can I receive the funds directly and then pay for the program fees?

No, payment is either issued directly to the Program Provider or you can request a reimbursement if the registration fees were paid in advance.

Note: if you are requesting a reimbursement, it must be done within thirty (30) days of payment.

Can I receive Subsidy for After School Programs?
No, you must contact Children's Services to inquire about Child Care Fee Subsidy or call 705-748-8830.
Can Subsidy be used to purchase equipment i.e. bicycles, skates, etc.
No, the Recreation Program Subsidy can only be used to assist with registration fees. Canadian Tire Jumpstart may be able to provide assistance with equipment.
Can Subsidy be used for non-recreational activities?
Yes, the Recreation Program Subsidy can provide assistance with programs offered at the Peterborough Museum & ArchivesArt Gallery of Peterborough, Art School of Peterborough, music lessons, etc.
Can Subsidy be used for programs offered outside of the City limits
No, the programs must be offered within the City of Peterborough city limits. Canadian Tire Jumpstart may be able to provide assistance.
 Can I receive Subsidy for a program or membership at the YMCA
No, please visit YMCA Membership - Financial Assistance for information or call 705-748-9642 ext. 259.

Other sport subsidy programs

Canadian Tire Jumpstart

Supported by Jumpstart logo

Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities is a registered charity dedicated to removing financial barriers so kids across Canada have the opportunity to get off the sidelines and get into the game.

Peterborough Recreation Services has been a major benefactor of the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program. Jumpstart funding has not only led to an increase in participation across our programs but has enabled our department’s ability to provide staff with comprehensive training that is required for specific programs. As a result, our staff is more equipped than ever to provide the services needed to ensure our participants have a positive and enjoyable experience. Additionally, we have been able to utilize Jumpstart funding in a manner to improve the quality of our programs. More specifically, the funding has allowed us to improve the quality of our equipment and alleviate the supply costs associated with operating those programs.

Most recently, Recreation Services was awarded funding to support our Winter 2023 Inclusive Youth Dance Medley class to build capacity for all abilities to participate and lead in recreational activities, sports, and leisure. This example epitomizes why Canadian Tire Jumpstart has been an integral component of the recreational programs offered by the City of Peterborough, and the Recreation Services Division. #SupportedByJumpstart

Jumpstart's core purpose is to enrich the lives of kids (from 4 to 18) in need through sports and physical activity. We assist with the costs associated with registration, equipment and/or transportation.

The Peterborough Chapter receives support from the two local Canadian Tire stores and consists of several organizations committed to helping children.

Note: Individual Child grant applications open in January and close when the funds have been depleted for the year.

For more information or to apply online visit Canadian Tire Jumpstart. If you require assistance with your application and live in Peterborough, contact the Recreation Division at 705-742-7777 ext. 1827. If you live in Peterborough County call the YMCA at 705-748-9642 ext. 225.

Hockey Canada Foundation Assist Fund

The Hockey Canada Foundation Assist Fund is a $1 million fund created to assist Canadian families experiencing financial challenges as a result of COVID-19. The Assist Fund will provide up to $500 per player in registration fee subsidies to approved applicants who are registered with a Hockey Canada-sanctioned association. 

Please visit their website for updates on when the 2024-25 Assist Fund application portal will open.

Just 4 Kics (Kids in Community Sports)

Just 4 Kics is a proud Canadian registered charity providing underprivileged youth (18 and younger) with funding support for a sport or recreational activity within their community. For more information call 416-346-2488 or email admin@just4kics.ca

NHLPA Goals & Dreams fund 

The NHLPA Goals & Dreams fund provides equipment grants of brand new equipment to organizations and programs that are helping deserving children play the game of hockey. 

PHA Cares Program

The PHA wants everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy the sport of hockey.  Should financial circumstances become a barrier for a child’s involvement, the PHA will try to provide support to local families. This applies to both house league and rep league individuals. 

The PHA requires a family to apply for Canadian Tire Jump Start Program and the Minor Hockey Foundation of Ontario subsidy program prior to asking for financial assistance through the PHA's “Right to Play” program.

Teachers for Kids Foundation

Teachers for Kids has provided over half a million dollars to help students participate in sports, trips, extracurricular clubs and teams, tutoring, and other activities. They also provide items necessary for students' social and emotional well being such as clothing, prescriptions, counseling, help to families dealing with serious illnesses, etc.

KPRDSB students in need are identified by their teacher, principal, guidance counselor, social worker or other school personnel. If you know of a student in need, please talk to your school. The rep will help you through the simple application process to quickly get support in place for the student.

Jennifer Ashleigh Children's Charity

The mission of the Jennifer Ashleigh Children's Charity is to improve the quality of life for seriously ill children and families. The Jennifer Ashleigh Children's Charity assists children who are:

  • seriously ill
  • permanently disabled
  • under the age of 21
  • permanent residents of Ontario or Landed Immigrant status

Kids in Camp

Kids in Camp is a registered charity established to financially assist families to send their kids to camp.

KidSport Ontario

KidSport provides grants to families facing financial barriers to assist with registration fees and equipment costs for children to participate in registered sport programs. Kidsport can provide between $250.00 to $500.00 per eligible child.

Ontario Growing Up Through Sports

Ontario Growing Up Through Sports offers financial assistance to low-income families across communities in Ontario. Ontario Growing Up Through Sports believes that no matter the situation at home, all kids should be able to enjoy what playing sports has to offer in their local communities.