Apply for fee assistance
Get financial help to join recreation, sports and arts programs. If approved, you’ll receive a $400 credit per person, per year.
On this page:
How the credit works
If approved, you get a $400 credit per person, per year.
You can use it for:
- city-run recreation programs
- affiliated minor sports
- arts and culture programs
Credit rules:
- credits run from December 1 to November 30 each year
- you must reapply every year
- credits are not refundable or transferable
For complete program information, read the Fee Assistance Leisure Access Program Policy (PDF).
Check if you qualify
You can apply if you:
- live in Waterloo
- have a household income at or below the limits in this table
| Household members | Annual income before taxes |
|---|---|
| 1 | $26,290 |
| 2 | $32,727 |
| 3 | $40,234 |
| 4 | $48,851 |
| 5 | $55,404 |
| 6 | $62,488 |
| 7+ | $69,571 |
Get your documents ready
For each adult in your household, you need:
- proof of income – such as a tax return or benefit statement
- proof of address – if not listed on your income document
If you arrived in Canada as a refugee within the past year, you need:
- proof of permanent residency or refugee status for each family member
Documents must be in a digital format. We accept clear photos.
Apply
Choose how you want to apply:
- apply online – you’ll need an email address and your documents
- apply in person – email lynn.dicksegley@waterloo.ca to book an appointment
We’ll confirm by email within 2 weeks if your application is approved.
Other assistance programs
Canadian Tire Jumpstart
Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart program gives kids aged 4 to 18 a chance to play sports by helping cover registration costs for qualifying families. Find out more on the Jumpstart website.
House of Friendship
The Family Outreach Program is a neighbourhood-based program funded by the Region of Waterloo that works with families with children aged 17 and under to prevent and reduce the effects of poverty. To connect with your Family Outreach Worker, visit the House of Friendship program page.
KidSport
KidSport provides grants to help cover the cost of registration and equipment fees so that all kids aged 18 and under in KitchenerWaterloo can participate in the eligible dance or sport programs of their choice. Find our more on the KidSport website.