Financial Support Programs

Financial support may be available for individuals and families facing financial barriers to participate in recreation and leisure programs. The type of financial support is based on, age, program type, family income and family size.

Children's Programs

The Children's Program Subsidy is for St. John's residents who are under 18 years of age.

Requests for programs which are 2 weeks or less are referred to the REAL Program.

Learn more about the REAL program.

Eligibility

Applications for financial support for City of St. John's programs are considered based on level of need and determined by Statistics Canada's Low Income Cut Off. Applicants must meet the program requirements (such as age, designated school, etc.).

Applications must be completed in full and include:

Proof of residency for St. John's which clearly identifies the applicant's name and address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, driver's license, etc.
Proof of income from all sources such as:
- Canada Revenue Agency Notice of Assessment for the previous year (applications submitted in 2022 are based on 2021 income): Call 1-800-959-8281
- Canada Child Tax Benefit Notice: Call 1-800-387-1193

Deadlines

Deadline dates occurring on a weekend are extended to the following Monday.

Spring Recreation Programs - February 1
Pre School and After School Care - March 1
Summer Recreation Programs - March 17
Fall Recreation Programs - July 17
Winter Recreation Programs - November 17

Application process

One application per program is required
Applications may be approved for full or partial subsidy based on need.
Applicants will be notified once the application is processed.
Please allow 7-10 business days for us to reply.

For questions or assistance completing this application: email inclusion@stjohns.ca or call 709-576-8684.

Adult Programs

We believe all citizens have the right to participate in the recreational programs and services of their choice. Leisure time is an important and integral part of the quality of life for all people.

The Adult Program Subsidy is for St. John's residents who are over 18 years of age. Residents 18 and under may apply for financial assistance through the Children Program Subsidy, or the REAL program.

Eligibility

Deadline

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and are considered based on program availability.

Application process

Applications for adults must be completed in full and include:

Proof of residency for St. John's which clearly identifies the applicant's name and address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, driver's license, etc.
Proof of income from all sources such as: Canada Revenue Agency Notice of Assessment for the previous year (applications submitted in 2022 are based on 2021 income): Call 1-800-959-8281
Applications may be approved for full or partial subsidy based on need.
Applicants will be notified once the application is processed.
Please allow 7-10 business days for us to reply.

For questions or assistance completing this application: email inclusion@stjohns.ca or call 709-576-8684.