Creative Kids is a program grounded in the belief that access to artistic and cultural activities has a transformative impact on the lives of children and youth.  Whether it is music lessons, dance training, visual art instruction, language classes or theatre camp, research shows that participation in creative activities from an early age can have a deep and profound effect that lasts a lifetime.

 

The first of its kind in Canada, Creative Kids is a registered charity designed to reduce or remove financial and social barriers that prevent children ages 4 to 19 from engaging in artistic and cultural activities.  Kids without the financial means to learn to play a music instrument, join a dance club, experience the joys of theatre or reconnect with their cultural heritage can apply to Creative Kids for funding that will help them gain these experiences. 

 

We believe:

·         creative activities are fundamental to the positive growth and development of children and youth;

·         cultural programming is critical to a healthy vibrant community; and

·         all children and youth should have the opportunity to participate in creative activities regardless of economic barriers they may               face.

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The Need:

Saskatchewan has the highest provincial child poverty rates in Canada. A new report identified that 78,050 children (about 27%) were living in poverty in 2023.  These children have limited access to essential daily needs and opportunities for positive growth and self-esteem. Many of these families also have challenges, such as job loss or disabilities that make involvement in creative activities out of reach.  Besides basic needs to be warm, fed and clothed, we believe it’s important to feed the spirit. For a child or youth facing financial or social barriers to feel accepted and included, the longed-for chance to make music, paint, act, or dance can be life changing.

 

Creative Kids was launched in February of 2010 and since then has provided over $1.94 million to support more than 4,200 children and youth ages 4-19 in the Regina community and provincially, Creative Kids has funded over 18,351 kids with over $8.76 million.  Creative Kids is an exciting and vital program that offers meaningful opportunities to Regina children and youth, from disadvantaged families, to participate in artistic and cultural activities.  Creative expression and participation in programs that foster inclusion and acceptance, boost self-esteem, increase learning potential, inspire imagination, encourage dedication, and promote both physical and mental wellness should be accessible to all children and youth living in Regina. 

 

SaskCulture Inc.  covers 100% of the administrative and operating costs for Creative Kids so that 100% of all donations and sponsorships go directly to the kids, and all money raised in Regina, stays in Regina!