What we do and why...

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.

The need:

Saskatchewan has one of the highest provincial child poverty rates in Canada. According to the most recent data, over 55,000 children in the province have limited access to essential daily needs and opportunities for positive growth and self-esteem. Many of these families also experience 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.

That’s where we come in.

What we do:

Creative Kids offers financial support for Saskatchewan children and youth to participate in artistic and cultural activities. The grants are available to families who may not otherwise be able to afford art classes, music lessons, theatre classes, cultural activities, and dance classes, so that more kids can experience the benefits of these activities — benefits such as building confidence, finding their passions, and feeling like they belong by connecting with others.

We partner with hundreds of instructors, studios, businesses, and non-profits across the province who provide lessons to kids in their communities.

The funding Ann has received has had an enormous impact on her life. I have seen a huge change in her and how she sees herself. I no longer hear comments from her about how ‘dumb’ she is, but I do hear comments about how she has learned to play a difficult piece, or how some of her friends want her to teach them how to play. I believe taking piano lessons is the reason her confidence has continually grown this year…I want to thank you for the funding Ann received last year and for considering her application this year.”

~ Ruth McCuaig