New pilot program brings free sports equipment to Welland parks

The City of Welland is proud to announce a new pilot partnership with Equip Sport and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (Jumpstart) to make outdoor recreation more accessible across the city.

Through the pilot, nine free, self-serve sports equipment lockers have been installed at high-use community sport fields and courts across Welland. The lockers will give residents easy access to equipment such as basketballs, soccer balls, frisbees, and rackets, depending on the location.

“We are pleased to bring this innovative program to Welland residents,” said Jennifer McPetrie, director of community services. “By increasing access to recreation equipment in parks across the community, we’re helping more people enjoy active lifestyles and make the most of our public spaces.”

Using the Equip Sport app, residents can borrow equipment at participating City parks, use it while they are there, and return it when they are done. The service is free and does not require a credit card.

The program is funded by Jumpstart in partnership with Equip Sport and comes at no cost to the City or residents. Equip Sport will manage all aspects of the program, including installation, maintenance, and will provide reporting on usage to City staff. The system is already being used in communities across Canada and is designed to reduce common barriers to recreation, such as cost and equipment availability, while encouraging more people to get active in local parks.

“Every kid deserves the opportunity to build confidence, connection and lifelong skills through sport,” said Marco Di Buono, president, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “These equipment lockers help remove one more barrier to play, making it easier for kids and youth to turn everyday visits to the park into opportunities for activity and connection. Through this investment, we’re proud to help make sport more accessible for kids and families in Welland.”

Staff identified a network of locations to support equitable access, maximize community reach, and encourage strong visibility and use of the program. Locations include Chippawa Park, Hooker Street Park, Station Park, Gaiser Park, Beamus Park, Glenwood Park, Almond Street Park, Rolling Acres Park, and Maple Park.

These locations represent a mix of destination and neighbourhood parks to help ensure residents in different areas of the city can access the program.

For media inquiries, please contact: 
Paul Orlando
Communications Specialist
905-735-1700 x2133

paul.orlando@welland.ca