REGINA — Small town rinks will once again have funding support from the provincial government this winter, with the return of the Community Rink Affordability Grant.
Provided to indoor rink facilities to help cover operating costs, the grant program reported a resounding success in 2020 and 2021, said officials.
A total of 379 facilities, home to 594 ice surfaces including 377 skating rinks and 217 curling rinks, utilized the grant last year, according to the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport and the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association.
Minister Laura Ross said that $1.7 million was allocated to the program, which she said was an “important investment” by the government into community rinks.
“[These] are important hubs for so many villages, towns, cities and First Nations communities across Saskatchewan," said Minister Laura Ross. "Whether it is skating, curling, or playing hockey, rinks are important to the health and happiness of community residents and contribute greatly to our quality of life.”
The grant program was reinstated in 2020, as a response to recreational facilities struggling during pandemic restrictions.
By providing grant funding to help offset operating costs for indoor rinks, government officials said the program helped keep doors open at facilities integral to many communities.
“The grant allows us to keep our registration fees affordable so that we may be able to encourage more community members and surrounding community members to enjoy the facility,” said a statement from the Village of Debden, a recipient of grant funding last year.
Officials said feedback from communities was positive, prompting the continuation of the program in 2022.
Registration opens in the fall for indoor skating, curling and hockey rinks in Saskatchewan, which can apply for grant funding per ice surface.
