By Gerald V. Paul

For children in need who would like to see the Pan Am Games, Ontario is providing 4,500 tickets to children and youth to help experience the excitement.

The will be “a once in a lifetime experience and we want as many Ontarians as possible, young and old, to take part in the excitement,” said Michael Coteau, minister of tourism, culture and sport responsible for the Toronto 2015 Pan Am / Parapan Am Games.

“Through our Pan Am / Parapan Am Kids program and summer camps, we’re inspiring our next generation as they participate in sport and parasport activities and learn about active and healthy living. When they attend the Games they will build on that experience, taking in the magic of sport, friendship and celebration, and leave inspired by our incredible athletes,” said Coteau.

As part of the Pan Am / Parapan Am children’s summer camps, 35 organizations received funding to purchase tickets for their campers. Children from across Ontario will attend the Games with the support of the program, including kids and youths from Perth, Ottawa, Sudbury, Sarnia, Brant, Peterborough and Cambridge.

For those unable to attend the games due to distance, the province will work with camp organizers to deliver special Games-related activity days including events like themed viewing parties or visits from athletes.

Promoting participation in sport, recreation and active living is part of the government’s plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people’s talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario’s history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.

The program will also offer activities to support students of all ability levels, including helping kids learn about and get involved in parasport.

Ontario is providing $105, 000 to help Pan Am / Para Pan summer campers go to a 2015 Pan Am or Parapan Am sport competition or participate in Games-related activities.

Ontario officials expect the Games will attract 250,000 visitors, create 26,000 jobs and generate $3.7 billion.