Thirty-four Norman-area athletes received financial assistance to participate in sports program this summer through KidSport, reports Sport Manitoba.

Norman KidSport funded 33 athletes to participate in soccer and one athlete in school sports, at a total cost of $1,940.

KidSport is a national charity dedicated to assisting children to overcome financial barriers that prevent or limit their participation in organized sports. Financial assistance is available to children aged five to 18 years old up to a maximum of $300 per year.

KidSport receives no government funding and must raise all funds through the local communities. When donations are made to the KidSport Norman Region, 100 per cent of the donation stays within Norman Region and goes directly to children in need.

Donations to KidSport can be made through Sport Manitoba's Norman Region office. Contact the Sport Manitoba Norman Region office at 1-866-774-2220 ext. 8 for application forms or more information.

The next deadline to apply for KidSport funding is October 15.