Alberta RCMP partners with Sport Central to support youth sports

The Alberta RCMP has partnered with Sport Central, a charity that refurbishes and distributes used sports equipment to kids in need, aiming to improve youth well-being and strengthen communities across the province.

“When youth are engaged in healthy, structured activities, their well-being, and the well-being of the entire community is improved,” said Supt. Mike McCauley, Officer in Charge of Crime Reduction.

Since last year, RCMP detachments have helped distribute over 2,600 pieces of equipment. In May, 126 “ball kits” containing over 1,100 balls were delivered to 32 detachments for officers to hand out during patrols.

“At Sport Central there is a long and positive history working informally with the RCMP,” said Janna Tominuk, executive director. “But to be able to formalize and strengthen this partnership is only going to increase the connection to communities for both Sport Central and the RCMP. The image of a Mountie handing an ecstatic child sports equipment to help enrich their day to day life, sums up this winning partnership.”

“Sport Central partnering with the RCMP to help rural Alberta’s youth gain access to the benefits of sport is such a great fit,” said Gene Principe, board member. “The more kids we can get equipped to be active in the sport they love will lead to increased physical and mental health for our future generations.”