City of Burlington fee assistance program enhancements improve access to recreation programs
With registration now open for spring recreation programs and recent enhancements to the City of Burlington’s Recreation Fee Assistance Program, more Burlington residents can access quality programming that supports health, wellbeing and community belonging.
Last month, City Council received a staff report outlining enhancements made to the City’s Recreation Fee Assistance Program in 2025 to improve access and better meet the needs of individuals and families facing financial barriers to participation.
As part of the City’s ongoing program review efforts, and with affordability challenges growing across the region and beyond, staff made enhancements to the program to better support residents:
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Broadened eligibility criteria now includes residents living under the Low‑Income Cut Off (LICO) as well as those with a household income up to 25% above the LICO. This extends support to those experiencing near‑poverty or cyclical financial hardship.
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A streamlined two‑year approval cycle and a revised support model to minimize applicant paperwork, maximizes access to funding, and creates a predictable process.
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Summer camp support has been expanded, helping families access childcare during school breaks.
Foundational to the program are principles of confidentiality, equity, accessibility and responsible management of City resources, while ensuring that all residents have fair access to recreation programming regardless of financial barriers.
For more information about the City’s recreation fee assistance program, including eligibility criteria, an online calculator to help determine eligibility, application instructions and an FAQ, visit Burlington.ca/FeeAssistance.
For more information about the City’s spring recreation programming such as adult programs, swim lessons, aquatic leadership courses, spring youth programs, summer camps, and more, visit Burlington.ca/Recreation.
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Quotes
Marianne Meed Ward, Mayor
“Burlington thrives when everyone has the opportunity to participate, connect, and belong. The Recreation Fee Assistance program is more than financial support—it’s a reflection of our community’s values and our shared commitment to ensuring everyone is included. When residents of all ages can access recreation, they gain not only skills and confidence, but also a deeper sense of inclusion and community pride. That’s what this program is all about.”
Angelo Bentivegna, City Councillor, Deputy Mayor of Recreation and Community Services
“Removing financial and systemic barriers to recreation is essential to building a community where everyone feels welcome and supported. Access to recreation strengthens physical health, mental well‑being, and social connection. Programs like Recreation Fee Assistance help ensure that all Burlington residents can share in the full benefits of our City’s recreation services.”
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