Livingston Ice Access Program

The Cause

Our idea is to establish a skate lending program at The Hub in Livingston, allowing community members and residents from surrounding areas to borrow ice skates, helmets, and adaptive skating equipment. This program will remove financial barriers associated with purchasing skating gear, making winter sports accessible to all, regardless of their financial situation or physical ability.

Ice skating is a popular winter activity in Canada, but the cost of equipment can prevent many from participating. This program will allow families, individuals, and youth to borrow the equipment they need to enjoy recreational skating or take part in lessons. It will provide opportunities for people who may not have the resources to buy their own skates or helmets, encouraging more community members to stay active and engaged during the winter season.

In addition to standard skating gear, we will include adaptive equipment for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. Adaptive ice skating options are expensive and not widely available, so by providing this equipment, we are ensuring that everyone, regardless of their physical ability, can experience the joy of skating.

We are seeking $20,000 in funding to launch this program. Of that, $5,000 will be allocated toward safe, secure storage for the equipment, ensuring it is properly maintained, organized, and protected. This includes lockable storage units, shelving, and space for maintenance tools such as skate sharpeners. Safe storage is essential to preserving the condition and safety of the equipment so it can be used season after season.

The remaining $15,000 will be used to purchase new skates, helmets, and adaptive equipment, ensuring a wide variety of sizes and options for participants of all ages and abilities. We will also use part of the funds to acquire maintenance tools and marketing materials to promote the program throughout the community. The program will be sustainable through donations of gently used equipment and a portion of The Hub’s annual budget, which will be allocated for maintenance and replacement costs as needed.

This initiative will have a “pay it forward” effect, encouraging community members to donate their own gently used skates and helmets to support others. As the program grows, we anticipate it becoming a valuable resource for local schools, youth groups, and organizations who will be able to borrow equipment for field trips, skating lessons, and events. It will foster a sense

Who Will it Benefit?

The skate lending program will benefit individuals and families in our community and beyond by removing financial and accessibility barriers to ice skating.

First, it will help families and individuals of all ages who may not afford skates and helmets, making recreational skating and lessons more accessible. This will allow low-income families and children to participate in physical activities, creating opportunities for bonding and outdoor fun during the winter.

A key group is people with disabilities or mobility challenges. By offering adaptive skating equipment, we ensure that those who may otherwise be excluded can enjoy ice skating with their peers, fostering inclusivity and equal access to winter sports.

The broader community will also benefit, as the program promotes social interaction and strengthens community bonds. Skating provides a low-cost way for residents to connect, encouraging a spirit of unity and support. Additionally, schools, youth groups, and community organizations will have access to the program, allowing for more field trips and lessons, further enriching the lives of young people and encouraging healthy lifestyles.

Finally, the program could indirectly benefit the local economy, boosting attendance at community rinks and creating new opportunities for winter sports participation.

In summary, the skate lending program will serve families, youth, individuals with disabilities, and community organizations, enhancing accessibility and inclusivity while fostering a strong sense of community.