Special Olympics Canada receives a financial boost
HAMILTON, May 14, 2004 -- The Honourable Stan Keyes, Minister of State (Sport), today announced the Government of Canada support for Special Olympics Canada."The Special Olympics Canada organization provides many of Canada's athletes with the opportunity to experience the many positive aspects of participation in sport. Sport teaches us important lessons about health and about social values, and brings our communities together," said Minister of State Keyes.
"Special Olympics Canada is delighted with this good news. We are most grateful to Minister of State Keyes, who clearly understands the importance of Special Olympics and the vital role that sport can play in the lives of people with a intellectual disability," said Tom Wright, Chairman of Special Olympics Canada.
The Government of Canada will provide up to $930,000 in 2004-05 from the Sport Support Program for national team preparation and participation at the 2005 Special Olympics Winter Games in Nagano, Japan and for Special Olympics Canada operations and programs for Official Languages initiatives.
Special Olympics Canada is dedicated to enriching the lives of Canadians with an intellectual disability by providing them with the opportunity to participate in sport. It is a non-profit organization that provides training and competition opportunities for 28,000 athletes of all ages and abilities. The Government of Canada has been a proud supporter of Special Olympics Canada since 1995.
Overall, the Government of Canada provides $120 million in annual funding to support participation and excellence in sport from the playground to the podium. To learn more about the various sport-related programs offered by the Government of Canada, visit the Canadian Heritage Web site at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca/sportcanada
Information:
Caroline Jacques
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of State (Sport)
(613) 761-8569
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