Premier Promises Cash For After School Programs
Posted February 5, 2008 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
He may not be ready for the Raptors yet, but the Miami Heat could use a guy with a decent lay-up. Premier Dalton McGuinty shot some hoops with students Tuesday morning at Gateway Public School. But his visit wasn’t all fun and games – the Liberal boss was there to talk money. Specifically, an increase to funding that allows community groups to use school facilities after hours.
He spoke directly to students, telling them that this money “will create more opportunities for more young people just like (themselves), as well as adults and seniors.” In fact, funding will triple over the course of the next four years. Currently, the province gives $20 million a year, but by the end of the project, Ontario will pump $66 million annually into school coffers.
The Premier also announced that the 500 neediest schools in the province will receive an even bigger boost: Community groups will pay no fees to use facilities after-hours. Who knows, the next Steve Nash could come from Gateway’s after-school program.
