This non-profit is falling short of what it needs to make holiday magic

In a City of St. John's-run building sits dozens of sets of hockey gear waiting to be handed out to kids who might need a little help getting involved.

Since 2002 the city's Recreation Experiences And Leisure program has worked to get young folks involved in recreation and has enjoyed success doing it, until the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

"Funding and donations havebeen quite a challenge," saidCoun. Jill Bruce.

WATCH | Why hundreds of kids could miss out on playing sports or being involved in the arts:

St. John's looking for some REAL help to fill some gaps in providing recreational activities to youth

6 months ago

Duration 1:52

REAL Program has helped thousands of kids since 2002 but now it needs a little help.

REALis a not-for-profit program that supports children from low-income families by helping to pay the expenses associated involved in sports, arts and leadership programs.

Prior to 2020the councillor for Ward 1 said they used to be able to help out around 1,500 kids a year.

That numberhasdropped and now the REAL program can only help 66 per cent of requests.

"The needs so far in 2023 has been over just over 1,000 [requests] and due to the financial constraints only just over 700 have been able to be placed," Bruce said.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, city staff hopesome corporations might offer up help to make up thegap.

The city is also selling Christmas cards to try togenerate some additionalfunding.

"The initiativeis called Give the Gift of Play," said Bruce. "That's exactly what we are trying to do, give an opportunity for a young person who may not have the opportunity otherwise."

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