KidsPlay Youth Activity Funding Assistance (Community Foundation of Orange)

'Created by the Community Foundation of Orange in 2007, KidsPlay ensures that no child is left on the sidelines' by providing access to youth sports, visual and performing arts, and enrichment programs. 'KidsPlay currently supports participants in 3rd-12th grade (ages 8-17) who demonstrate financial need.' 'Applicants must reside within Orange Unified School District boundaries or attend school within the boundaries of the Orange Unified School District.' 'A maximum of $250 per child per year may be awarded and can be used for qualifying activities.' 'We are currently not funding any high school sports leagues.' Priority goes to youth who attend school in Orange and choose a league based in Orange; out-of-area leagues are considered only if funding allows. Qualifying activities named include Orange Junior Soccer Club, AYSO Region 1335, North and South Sunrise Little League, Cedar Tree Music, Orange Youth Football/Cheer, Olive Pony Baseball, Pacific Conservatory, Youth Centers, Central Orange Girls Safeball and NJB. In 2021 the program expanded to include youth mental health and wellness resources. KidsPlay has equipped more than 2,750 young people since it began.

Families submit a KidsPlay Application for each child together with supporting documentation, before registration for the activity closes - 'Applications will be denied if received after season begins.' Accepted documentation: a copy of a Medi-Cal card with the athlete's name, a copy of a Cal-Fresh (formerly SNAP) card, verification of enrollment in an OUSD GRIP program (coordinator confirmation accepted), a referral from an OUSD Title One school administrator, or a referral from a community partner such as El Modena Family Resource Center. Additional information may be requested to verify need, and prior funding does not guarantee continued funding.