How it works

The Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation and the international not-for-profit, Right to Play, partner with Indigenous communities and organizations to develop and deliver sport and play-based programs tailored to Indigenous children and youth.

Types of programs

PLAY programs are designed by child development and education experts with input from children, youth, parents, Elders and partners.

Essential life skills are taught through four programs in 60 communities across Ontario.

After School Program

Designed for children 6-12 years old, After School Program includes homework support and lets families help plan activities.

Youth Leadership Program

Youth Leadership Program gives 12-18 year olds opportunities to build their leadership skills and become agents of change in their communities.

Play for Prevention Program

Through the Play for Prevention Program, children and youth of all ages learn about healthy and active lifestyles and help their communities develop long-term approaches to diabetes awareness and prevention.

Sport for Development Program

Designed for children and youth of any age, the Sport for Development Program brings professional athletes and medical specialists into schools and communities for 3-6 day clinics to inspire local coaches, children and youth to make sport a regular part of their daily lives.

Who is eligible

You are eligible to apply, if you are:

  • a First Nation
  • Métis
  • an Inuit Community
  • an urban Indigenous organization

How to apply

For projects starting between September 1, 2016 and August 31, 2017

The application period is now closed.

For projects starting after September 1, 2017

The funding application period will be announced in the spring of 2017.

Read the PLAY Program Overview to see if the program is right for you.

Selection criteria

Communities and organizations are selected based on a series of criteria, including:

  • demonstrated need for the program
  • a clear vision for how the program will involve youth and children in the community
  • demonstrated ability to carry out the program (with some support from Right to Play)
  • commitment from community/organization leaders to support the program
  • resources available to ensure the program succeeds (e.g., in-kind contribution of program space, accommodation for Right to Play staff)

Selection process

  1. You will get an email to confirm that your application has been received.
  2. If your application is short-listed, you will receive a call from a member of the selection committee who will conduct an interview with you to better understand your hopes and plans for the program.
  3. The selection committee and Right to Play make final selections once interviews are completed.
  4. Right To Play contacts you to let you know if you have been selected or not.