P.R.O. Kids Positive Recreation Opportunities for Kids

Healthy Children and Youth - Healthy Communities Working Together

Vision

All children and youth in Saint John have the opportunity to participate in the arts, cultural, recreation, and sport activity of their choice.

Purpose

To provide program and financial assistance to children and youth in need. Activities such as the arts, culture, recreation and sports are known to promote self-esteem, healthy growth, increased knowledge and personal development.

Background

An estimated 27 % of the population of Saint John lives in poverty, representing more than 19,000 individuals, of which 8,300 are children under the age of 18. The City of Saint John Leisure Services Department recognizes that P.R.O. Kids is necessary and is willing to partnmer with interested organizations and citizens to take on the primary role of delivering P.R.O. Kids to the community.

P.R.O. Kids is a unique concept that was developed by the City of Thunder Bay and is now implemented in Riverview New Brunswick and Kingston Ontario. In 1998, Thunder Bay placed more than 300 children with more than 100 community organizations donating spaces in their programs. More than 1000 children were placed in the year 2000.

On Febuary 13, 2010 the CGHL held an all-star game, raising $1,000 for P.R.O. Kids

For additional information on P.R.O. Kids Contact:

P.R.O. Kids Coordinator - 642-PLAY (-7529) or E-mail - prokids@saintjohn.ca

Alo, follow P.R.O. Kids on twitter @prokids