Normally, it’s a kid’s worst nightmare being dragged along by parents to hardware stores.
But not on one particular Saturday.
At Canadian Tire, kids enjoyed activities like spin the wheel, bean-bag toss and face painting as part of the annual Jumpstart charity BBQ.
“We actually came to get a new swimming pool,” said parent Kately Kyle, who visited Canadian Tire with her husband and son.
Henry Kyle, four, took his time stacking cups at the event.
Jumpstart is an annual Canadian Tire event which carries on into June. The aim of Jumpstart is to help local children in financial need to participate in sports and recreational activities.
Donations for the BBQ will be matched by Kelowna Canadian Tire owner Keith Gostlin.
“It helps cover registration fees, transportation (and more),” said Jumpstart chapter co-chair Petra Tregillus.
She hopes to have a good turnout this year, as it all depends on the weather.
They change up the activities each year. A food truck was on site offering lunch for parents and kids. The BBQ raises awareness for Jumpstart, which runs through June.
This year nationally, Canadian Tire hopes to raise a $1 million.
“It’s a big goal we’re trying to work to definitely,” said Tregillus.
Last year Kelowna raised $1,700 in June and the BBQ event typically raises around $1,000.
Any money raised in Kelowna, stays in the area for organizations like the YMCA.
“It’s important to get them out there doing things that they couldn’t normally afford,” said Jumpstart chapter co-chair Karissa Mcewan. “As our shirt says, it gives them confidence.”
For more information visit the Jumpstart website.
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carli.berry@kelownacapnews.com
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