On February 20, 2026, South Dundas United received an email from Deanna Bornemisa, who is the Eastern Ontario relationship manager for Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. That email stated that there are changes for the Jumpstart Individual Child Grant program in our region. As such, Individual Child Grants are no longer an option for this region.
Hello,
I’m reaching out to share an important update about Jumpstart’s funding approach in your community. As a valued partner in helping children access sport and play, we want you to have the latest information on how we’re evolving to meet the needs of Canadian youth.
What’s Changing?
Starting January 2026, Jumpstart will no longer offer Individual Child Grants in the Brockville-Prescott Chapter. Instead, we are shifting our focus to Community Development Grants and other initiatives—such as Equip and Play to Lead—that prioritize affordable, inclusive sport programming, ensure participant safety, and provide qualified coaches and leaders. By investing in these community-driven programs, Jumpstart can create sustainable opportunities that deliver long-term impact and help more children and youth access sport and play than ever before.Why the Change?
Through our new strategic plan, PLAY:30, Jumpstart is committed to enabling lifelong success for children and youth by removing financial, physical, and systemic barriers to sport and play. Our research shows that Community Development Grants generate nearly three times the social value compared to Individual Child Grants. This shift allows us to:
- Reach more kids, especially girls and equity-deserving groups
- Support organizations in building capacity and sustainability
- Deliver programs that foster youth skill development, health, and well-being.
What Does This Mean for Your Community?
- All funds raised for your chapter will continue to support local initiatives
- Jumpstart will partner with organizations that provide safe, inclusive, and affordable sport programming
- Families can still benefit from programs supported through Community Development Grants and other Jumpstart initiatives like Equip and Play to Lead
We understand this transition may be disappointing for families who relied on Individual Child Grants. However, we believe this approach will create more opportunities and long-term benefits for children and youth across Canada.
For more details, please visit https://jumpstart.canadiantire.ca
Thank you for your continued support in helping kids play.
Sincerely,
DeannaDeanna Bornemisa
Relationship Manager, Eastern Ontario
Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities
2180 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4P 2V8
Jumpstart is a great program, one that has helped connect kids with sport for many years. At South Dundas United, we are concerned that this is going to limit some people’s participation in the sport here in South Dundas.
There are some other programs out there for those who have financial need. If there are families who are concerned about cost of registering, please feel free to reach out as our organization is happy to assist with solutions. The last thing anyone wants to see is kids not be able to play this sport because of a financial reason. Soccer is for everyone and we truly believe that. SDUFC has consistently worked to keep registration fees as low as possible, and offers the lowest cost soccer and recreation programming in our community and region.
We are disappointed with the changes from Jumpstart and appreciate the past financial support of the charity over our past three decades as a soccer club.
To connect and discuss options, please email president@southdundasunited.ca or info@southdundasunited.ca
Yours in soccer,
Phil
—
Phillip Blancher – President
South Dundas United FC
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