Recreation Access Program

The Recreation Access Program is part of the Affordable Access Program and provides recreation opportunities to children, youth and adults in financial need. Depending on the need, the cost of recreation programs and facility memberships could be 25, 50 or 100 per cent covered by the program. All recreation programs offered by Halifax Recreation are eligible for this program with the exception of the following:

• private swim lessons

• birthday parties

• programs offered by third-party services (e.g. Sportball programs, card making, etc.)

• space rentals

• personal training 

Proof of financial need must accompany your application. You must include one of the following as applicable to your request:

• A Notice of Assessment for individuals 18 years of age and over.
• Sample Notice of Assessment.

• Letter from the Department of Community Services or referral letter from a community clinician.

Note:  Approval of applications submitted on or before December 31, 2025 will be based on Revenue Canada's 2024 Low income cut-off table (see below): 

Recreation Access Program: Application guidelines

• You must live in the Halifax region.

• You must fill out the application prior to paying for your registration.
  • Note: The program does not reimburse individuals who have already paid. If you have already paid, you can apply for assistance for another season.

• Once you have been notified of approval by email, please contact your local recreation centre to register for programs. This application is for program approval purposes only.

• Parks & Recreation has the right to limit access when necessary.