HAMILTON — The Ontario government is committing $43.9 million over three years to support its After School Program (ASP), ensuring more than 13,000 children and youth in underserved communities remain active, healthy, and engaged beyond classroom hours.
The renewed funding, announced by Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport, extends the program’s reach and stability while reducing administrative hurdles for delivery partners. The initiative aims to provide safe, structured environments for children after school—offering physical activity, tutoring, and nutritious snacks at little to no cost for families.
“Our government is proud to invest in programs that give hard-working parents access to fun, safe and supervised activities for their children,” said Lumsden. “By establishing three-year agreements, we are cutting red tape for our partners and creating more stability for providers and participants – helping ensure families continue to have access to the high-quality, active recreation programs they rely on.”
Supporting Children, Families, and Communities
Launched in 2009, Ontario’s After School Program operates in more than 80 communities through a network of 110 organizations, including municipalities, First Nations, and non-profit partners such as YMCAs and Boys and Girls Clubs. The initiative serves students from kindergarten through Grade 12, emphasizing physical activity, academic support, and access to local arts and cultural programming.
Each participating site is required to include components that promote physical literacy, healthy eating, and personal development. For many families, these programs provide a crucial bridge between school and home, offering supervision and enrichment during hours when parents are still at work.
“Our government is supporting student success both inside and outside the classroom,” said Paul Calandra, Minister of Education. “By investing in programs that encourage students to stay active, build confidence and develop new skills, we’re helping them reach their full potential and achieve success in all areas of life.”
The funding is part of Ontario’s broader strategy to promote wellness and learning through accessible community-based initiatives. Officials say the extended multi-year investment model will help organizations plan long-term, retain staff, and deliver consistent, high-quality programming.
Community Partners Welcome Stability
For community organizations, the funding renewal represents both recognition and relief. Groups like BGC Hamilton-Halton and BGC Peel (formerly Boys and Girls Clubs) say the investment will help sustain operations that have become lifelines for local families.
“We are thrilled and grateful that the Government of Ontario is continuing their investment in the Ontario After School Program,” said Milja Minic, Chief Operating Officer of BGC Hamilton-Halton. “This funding allows us to provide high quality programs for children during the critical after school hours when parents are often still at work or school. With our focus on helping young people to be active and well, these programs promote physical literacy and activity, nutrition and wellness education, and positive social development — all key factors in enabling healthy, confident, and resilient young people and ultimately helping to create healthy and vibrant communities.”
Minic added that the government’s continued support represents a “critical investment” in building healthier, stronger communities now and for future generations.
In northern and rural communities, organizations echo similar praise for the ASP’s impact. France Gauthier, Executive Director of Our Children, Our Future, said the funding has allowed her organization to reach more families and provide meaningful opportunities for children’s development.
“The support from Ontario’s After School Program has allowed us to expand our reach and deepen our connection with school-aged children and their families, offering new opportunities for engagement, learning, and active play within our community, especially for those who might not otherwise have access to organized after school care,” said Gauthier. “The impact has been remarkable, creating a safe, welcoming space where children can build friendships, confidence, and a sense of belonging.”
Fostering Skills and Healthy Habits
In addition to providing supervision, the ASP emphasizes skill-building and wellness. Programs are designed to foster leadership, improve academic performance, and encourage lifelong healthy habits through structured recreation and mentoring.
“At BGC Peel—Boys and Girls Club, our parents and children have expressed that our after-school programs provide them with a healthy environment, social and mental wellness they need, especially since coming out of Covid,” said Michael Gyovai, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of BGC Peel. “Thanks to funding from the Government of Ontario, BGC Peel staff have found that our kids are improving in their academic performance, fostering leadership skills, increasing participation in physical activity, and allowing BGC Peel to provide a safe, supportive place where children and youth can experience new opportunities.”
Gyovai added that the program’s influence extends beyond recreation — helping youth develop self-esteem, community responsibility, and the confidence to achieve their goals.
Strengthening Ontario’s Social Infrastructure
According to the Ministry of Sport, the renewed funding reflects Ontario’s commitment to protecting families and strengthening communities through long-term investments in youth programs. By working with local partners to deliver tailored services, the province aims to address both immediate childcare needs and broader social development goals.
“The After School Program is about more than keeping kids busy,” said Lumsden. “It’s about giving them the tools, support, and confidence to succeed — and building stronger, healthier communities across Ontario.”
