The Town of Okotoks wants to make sure those in need are given the opportunity to stay active.

The Okotoks Recreation Centre reported a decrease in the amount of users for its programming as a result from the economic downturn.

Janette Messer, community programs manager, says she wants residents to know what resources are there for them.

"When we see a drop in any registrations to any of our programs and we have all these options for subsidy that families can access it's unfortunate the community doesn't really know about some of the programs they would qualify for so more people can access funds that are available."

Messer says the rec fee assistance program is a great option.

"It supports children and adults, children between the ages of 6-18, and residents of Okotoks and the MD of Foothills," she says. "They can get a maximum of a $150 subsidy annually towards the purchase of Town of Okotoks facility passes and programs so it's a great program that supports all ages in the community."

Any fee that is approved is automatically put on a rec centre account for the resident for when they register for a program, covering 80% of the cost through the fee assistance then 20% is covered by the family.

To learn more or to sign up for the rec fee assistance program contact the Okotoks Family Resource Centre at (403) 995-2626.

Information on other fee assistance program options like Canadian Tire Jumpstart, KidSport Okotoks, and Alberta Human Services: Stay at Home Parents Support can be found by clicking here.

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email us at news@okotoksonline.com